As I stood in the kitchen, the rich aroma of sautéing onions and garlic whisked me back to unforgettable family gatherings. Enter the majestic Funeral Potatoes, a casserole that doesn’t just fill your belly but warms your heart. This dish is a beloved Latter-Day Saint classic, boasting creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with tender potatoes and crowned with a delightful cornflake crunch. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for potlucks or casual family dinners. Whether you’re reminiscing about cherished memories or creating new ones, this comforting recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. What special occasions do you think would call for this comforting dish?
Why are Funeral Potatoes a must-try?
Ultimate Comfort Food: This casserole brings nostalgic warmth to any gathering, making it a staple for potlucks and family dinners.
Flavor Explosion: The rich, cheesy sauce combined with aromatic sautéed onions and garlic creates a savory hug in every bite.
Simple Prep: With only minimal prep time needed, you can have this dish ready to pop in the oven without hassle, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to customize by adding toppings or mix-ins like crumbled bacon or veggies—make it your own!
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s no wonder this dish consistently wins hearts; it’s perfect for feeding a large group and will keep everyone coming back for more. Don’t forget to check our tips on making ahead and storage for convenience!
Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Russet Potatoes – The foundation of this dish, providing essential starch; you can opt for a bag of frozen hash browns for convenience.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Prevents potato oxidation and enhances overall flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement, use it in stages for the best results.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until soft for maximum flavor.
• Garlic Cloves – Bring an aromatic touch to the dish; add to the onion after they soften.
• Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese – The star of the show, delivering creamy richness; orange cheddar adds lovely color.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and is key in making the roux for the cheese sauce; divided for sauce and greasing the pan.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens your cheesy goodness; combine with butter to create the roux.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Infuses moisture and flavor into the sauce, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Whole Milk – Adds a creamy texture; half-and-half can be used for a richer flavor.
• Powdered Ground Mustard – Introduces a subtle tang that elevates the overall taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances seasoning; feel free to adjust to your preference.
• Ground Cayenne Pepper – Offers a mild heat; add if you desire a slight kick.
• Sour Cream – Balances the richness with creaminess and a touch of tang.
For the Crunchy Topping
• Cornflake Cereal – Adds a delightful crunch to the top; mix with melted butter for extra flavor and texture.
This comforting and satisfying dish, known as Funeral Potatoes, promises to be a treasured addition to your family’s table.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Funeral Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Potatoes
If using fresh russet potatoes, peel and cut them in half. Boil in a large pot of salted water with a splash of apple cider vinegar for about 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain, then let cool for a few minutes before grating. If using frozen hash browns, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight until they’re ready to go.
Step 2: Grease Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven is heating, butter a 9×13-inch baking pan generously. This step ensures that your creamy Funeral Potatoes casserole doesn’t stick, making for easy serving later on.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, merging those rich flavors into your base.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour into the onion mixture, stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk, continuing to stir until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat, stirring in 2 cups of extra-sharp cheddar cheese, along with seasonings and 1 cup of sour cream for that classic creamy texture.
Step 5: Combine and Layer
In a large bowl, gently fold the grated potatoes into your rich cheese sauce until they are well coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes. Once combined, transfer this comforting mixture to your prepared baking pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread out for uniform cooking.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, crush 2 cups of cornflakes until they are coarsely crushed, then mix in 2 tablespoons of melted butter until evenly coated. This crunchy topping will add a delightful texture to the top of the Funeral Potatoes. Spread it generously over the casserole.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven, and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden-brown and bubbly. As the casserole bakes, the layers of flavor meld into a warm embrace. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving, which allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to scoop.
Make Ahead Options
These Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grate the russet potatoes and sauté the onions, garlic, and make the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the prepared potato mixture with the cheese sauce and layer it in your greased baking dish. To keep everything fresh and maintain quality, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. On the day of serving, just sprinkle the cornflake topping on top and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time as needed. This way, you’ll save precious time while still delivering a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish!
How to Store and Freeze Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Keep leftover Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy the creamy goodness again without compromising flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil; it can last up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight before baking.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This will help restore that crispy cornflake topping.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish the day before without the cornflake topping; just add it before baking to keep it crunchy!
Expert Tips for Funeral Potatoes
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Prep Ahead: Grate your potatoes a day in advance and refrigerate to save time. This makes assembly a breeze when you need to whip it up last minute.
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Taste as You Go: Always sample the cheese sauce before mixing it with the potatoes. Adjust the seasonings to match your preferred flavor profile; no one likes bland funeral potatoes!
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Avoid Soggy Potatoes: Ensure the cooked potatoes aren’t too wet before combining them with the cheese sauce. Proper draining maintains the casserole’s texture.
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Customize with Ease: Feel free to tweak the recipe—swap some cheddar for pepper jack, or throw in sautéed mushrooms for extra flair. It’s all about making the dish your own!
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the casserole during baking. Every oven is unique, so check for a golden brown topping before pulling it out to prevent over-baking.
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Reheating Tip: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave for a crispy topping. These funeral potatoes are just as delicious the next day!
Funeral Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor this delightful dish to your liking with these thoughtful twists!
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Spicy Twist: Substitute half of the cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a flavorful, spicy kick that surprises with each bite.
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Bacon Bliss: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch that brings added richness and a savory depth to the casserole. It’s a simple addition that can turn heads at any potluck!
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach into the potato mixture; this adds nutrition and color while making every scoop feel wholesome.
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Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the cheese sauce for a vibrant flavor boost; this enhances the dish’s aroma and visual appeal significantly.
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Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace the milk and sour cream with unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free yogurt; this creates a creamy consistency without any dairy, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerances.
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Tangy Update: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt to create a slight tanginess that complements the richness of the cheese and potatoes while adding a protein boost.
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Crunchy Add-Ins: Instead of cornflakes, try using panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a different kind of crunch that offers a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a rich, smoky flavor that really kicks up the comfort food factor.
Embrace these variations and enjoy experimenting with flavors! Be sure to check out our recommendations on making ahead and storage tips to ensure every bite of your casserole is as delicious as the first.
What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes
Elevate your gathering with the perfect sides that harmonize beautifully with this creamy casserole delight.
- Glazed Ham: The sweetness and savory flavors of glazed ham pair wonderfully, creating a comforting centerpiece for your meal.
- Crisp Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the casserole, adding brightness and crunch to each bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies for a caramelized sweetness that complements the creamy potatoes, providing contrasting textures.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The savory bite of pulled pork offers a flavorful punch that matches the heartiness of the funeral potatoes.
For a unique twist, consider pairing mini cornbread muffins alongside your spread. Their slightly sweet flavor creates a delightful contrast to the casserole’s richness, making every mouthful a new experience.
Finally, don’t forget a chilled white wine or sparkling cider to refresh your palate and enjoy the meal with family and friends.
Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use?
For the best texture in your Funeral Potatoes, I recommend using russet potatoes, as they provide the perfect starch content for a hearty casserole. If you’re short on time, you can also use a bag of frozen hash browns for convenience.
How should I store leftover Funeral Potatoes?
Leftover Funeral Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re cooled down before sealing them to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Funeral Potatoes? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole without the cornflake topping. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding the topping and baking as usual.
What if my cheese sauce is too thick or too thin?
Should your cheese sauce end up too thick, stir in a bit of additional low-sodium chicken broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring often, until it thickens to your liking. Tasting as you adjust is key!
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it without the cornflake topping. Just remember to add the topping before you pop it in the oven. This is a great way to save time on busy days—it’ll be ready to bake when you are!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This dish contains dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use lactose-free cheese to make a version that accommodates those dietary needs. Feel free to tweak ingredients to fit your family’s preferences!
Comforting Funeral Potatoes Casserole for Family Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using fresh russet potatoes, peel and cut them in half. Boil in a large pot of salted water with a splash of apple cider vinegar for about 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain, then let cool for a few minutes before grating. If using frozen hash browns, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight until they’re ready to go.
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven is heating, butter a 9x13-inch baking pan generously.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour into the onion mixture, stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk, continuing to stir until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, stirring in 2 cups of extra-sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of sour cream.
- In a large bowl, gently fold the grated potatoes into your rich cheese sauce until they are well coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking pan.
- In a small bowl, crush 2 cups of cornflakes, then mix in 2 tablespoons of melted butter until evenly coated. Spread it generously over the casserole.
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven, and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and bubbly. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
