Ultimate Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe: A Comforting Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion

Prepare to fall in love with these irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting funeral potatoes! Featuring a delightful contrast of textures from a rich potato base and a golden, crispy Ritz cracker and cornflake topping, this beloved casserole stands out as the ultimate side dish for any holiday gathering, family dinner, or special occasion. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that embodies warmth and deliciousness in every bite.

Why This Funeral Potato Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This funeral potato recipe isn’t just easy; it’s designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss, making it perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. With only about 20 minutes of active prep time, you can assemble a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The magic truly lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the incredible flavor profile they create together.

Effortless Preparation: Starting with frozen diced hashbrowns significantly cuts down on prep time, eliminating the need for peeling and chopping potatoes. This convenience is a game-changer when you’re preparing for a large gathering or a busy weeknight.
Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of sour cream and cream of chicken soup forms a luscious, savory base that coats every piece of potato. This creates an incredibly smooth and decadent texture that defines the comforting appeal of this casserole.
Irresistible Cheesy Goodness: Generous amounts of sharp cheddar cheese melt into the potato mixture, providing that signature gooey, savory, and utterly satisfying cheesy flavor that everyone loves.
Perfectly Crispy Topping: The buttery Ritz cracker and cornflake topping is the crowning glory. It adds an essential crunchy counterpoint to the creamy interior, delivering an exciting textural experience with every spoonful. This golden crust is what takes these potatoes from great to absolutely unforgettable.
Versatile for Any Event: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a casual potluck, or a comforting meal for loved ones, these potatoes fit right in. Their hearty nature and universal appeal make them a go-to dish for any occasion.

You might know this dish by several names, such as cheesy potato casserole or hashbrown casserole, especially popular around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The name “Funeral Potatoes” stems from their common appearance at post-funeral gatherings, offering a warm, comforting dish to those in mourning. Regardless of the name, the result is always a dish that brings smiles and satisfaction.

Essential Ingredients for Your Funeral Potato Casserole

Creating this delicious cheesy potato casserole requires a straightforward list of readily available ingredients. You’ll need a bag of frozen hashbrowns, a rich and creamy sauce base from sour cream and cream of chicken soup, plenty of sharp cheddar cheese, and the magic touch of a buttery Ritz and cornflake topping. Simple seasonings like garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion tie all the flavors together perfectly. All exact measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the comprehensive recipe card towards the end of this post.

Ingredient Spotlight & Easy Substitutions

Potatoes

The foundation of this dish is the potatoes, and we opt for convenience with **frozen diced hash brown potatoes**. These are fantastic because they require no peeling, chopping, or par-boiling, saving you valuable prep time. Just ensure they are thawed completely before mixing to prevent a watery casserole. If you prefer, **frozen shredded hash browns** work just as well and will give you a slightly different, finer texture. For those who enjoy cooking from scratch, you can certainly use fresh diced or shredded potatoes. If using fresh, we recommend par-boiling them for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender, then draining and cooling them before mixing, to ensure they cook evenly and become perfectly soft in the casserole.

Topping

The signature **Ritz crackers and cornflake cereal** topping is a game-changer, providing an unparalleled buttery crunch that perfectly complements the creamy potato base. The combination offers a savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully crisp texture. You can crush them finely for a more even coating or leave larger chunks for a more rustic, varied crunch. Looking for alternatives?

Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crisper texture, while standard breadcrumbs offer a more traditional, finer crust.
Crushed Potato Chips: For a salty, ultra-savory topping, crushed potato chips (plain or even a flavored variety like sour cream and onion) can add an interesting twist.
Saltines or Other Crackers: Any buttery or savory cracker can be a good substitute for Ritz, offering a similar salty crunch.
Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy crust, consider sprinkling more shredded cheese over the top for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Feel free to customize or even omit the topping if you prefer a simpler potato casserole.

Creamy Base (Sour Cream & Cream of Chicken Soup)

This duo creates the rich, tangy, and incredibly creamy sauce that binds everything together.

Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream delivers the best richness, but light sour cream can be used for a slightly less indulgent option. For a tangier flavor, Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened) can be an interesting substitute, though it might alter the texture slightly.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic ingredient acts as both a binder and a flavor enhancer, adding savory depth. If you’re not a fan of canned soups, you can easily make a homemade cream of chicken soup from scratch. Alternatively, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you choose a “cream of” soup to maintain the desired consistency.

Cheese

We recommend **shredded cheddar cheese** for its classic sharp flavor and excellent melting properties. For the best results, always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly. Other great cheese options include:

Colby Jack: A milder, creamier alternative that still melts beautifully.
Monterey Jack: Very mild and melts exceptionally well, perfect for a subtle cheese flavor.
A Blend: A mix of cheddar with a touch of Gruyère or Parmesan can add a sophisticated depth of flavor.

Butter

Both the potato mixture and the topping benefit from **melted unsalted butter**. It adds richness and helps create that desirable golden, crispy crust on the topping. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.

Seasonings

Our recipe uses **garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion** to elevate the savory notes of the casserole.

Garlic Salt: Provides both salt and garlic flavor. If using garlic powder instead, adjust the salt separately.
Dried Minced Onion: Adds a subtle, sweet onion flavor without the crunch of fresh onions. Onion powder can be used as an alternative.
Other Additions: Consider a pinch of paprika for color and a hint of smoky flavor, or fresh chives for a mild oniony brightness. A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Funeral Potatoes

These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent the cheesy potato mixture from sticking, ensuring an easy cleanup and a beautifully presented dish.
Season the Potatoes: In a very large bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes with garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion. Using gloved hands (or a sturdy spoon), gently mix until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings. Thawing the hashbrowns completely is important here, as it helps the seasonings adhere better and prevents excess moisture in the final casserole.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth and well combined. This mixture forms the heart of your creamy casserole base.
Combine All Base Ingredients: Add the shredded cheese, the prepared soup-and-sour-cream mixture, the seasoned potato mixture, and 2 tablespoons of the melted butter into the large bowl containing the potatoes. Again, using gloved hands allows for thorough and gentle mixing, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated without mashing the potatoes. You want every potato piece to be coated in that cheesy, creamy goodness.
Prepare the Crispy Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the corn flakes and Ritz crackers. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter over them. Use gloved hands or a spoon to toss and coat the cereals and crackers evenly. For crushing, place the mixture into a large zipper plastic bag and use the back of a measuring cup or a rolling pin to crush them to your desired consistency – some prefer finer crumbs, others larger chunks for more texture.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the creamy potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Then, generously sprinkle the crushed cereal and cracker mixture over the top. Make sure it forms an even layer to ensure consistent crispiness.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the potato mixture is bubbly and heated through. The uncovered baking ensures the topping gets beautifully crisp. Serve hot and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Funeral Potatoes

Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Funeral potatoes are an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for reducing stress on busy days. You can easily prepare the entire casserole, assembling all the creamy potato mixture into the baking dish, but *hold off* on adding the Ritz and cornflake topping. Cover the prepared casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. On the day of serving, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. Then, assemble the casserole with the crispy topping and bake according to the directions. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time if it’s going into the oven cold, ensuring it’s heated through to the center.

How do I store leftover cheesy potatoes?

Store any leftover funeral potatoes in an airtight container or simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Keep them refrigerated for 3-4 days. While the flavors will still be delicious, it’s worth noting that the crispy topping tends to lose its crunchiness once refrigerated. To revive some crispness when reheating, you can spread the leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.

Can I freeze funeral potatoes?

Yes, you can! For freezing, we recommend preparing the casserole without the topping. Assemble the potato mixture in a freezer-safe aluminum baking dish. Cover tightly with foil (double layer if possible) and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, add the fresh topping and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed. You can also bake it from frozen (without thawing), but it will require a significantly longer baking time (around 1.5-2 hours covered, then uncovered for the last 30-40 minutes after adding the topping).

Can I add meat to funeral potatoes?

Absolutely! Adding cooked meat can turn this side dish into a more substantial main course. Cooked, crumbled bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded cooked chicken are popular additions. Simply stir the cooked meat into the potato mixture before transferring it to the baking dish.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make gluten-free funeral potatoes, you’ll need to make a few simple substitutions. Ensure your frozen hashbrowns are certified gluten-free (most plain frozen potatoes are, but always check the label). Replace the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free cream of chicken soup alternative or make a homemade gluten-free cream sauce using gluten-free flour. For the topping, use gluten-free crackers (like certain rice crackers) and gluten-free cornflakes. These adjustments will allow you to enjoy all the comforting flavors without the gluten.

Expert Tip for Extra Flavor:

For an even deeper, more complex flavor in your casserole, consider sautéing a small diced onion in a tablespoon of butter until softened and lightly browned. Add this to your potato mixture along with the other seasonings. This extra step adds a wonderful aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes

Cheesy funeral potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses, truly shining as a staple for both casual meals and festive spreads. Their rich and savory profile pairs beautifully with many proteins and vegetables.

Holiday Feasts: These potatoes are a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. They beautifully complement traditional roasted turkeys, glazed hams, and succulent prime rib.
Sunday Suppers: Serve them alongside a classic pot roast, baked chicken, or pork tenderloin for a hearty and satisfying family meal.
Potlucks and Barbecues: During warmer months, these potatoes travel well and are always a hit at potlucks and outdoor gatherings. Pair them with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or barbecued ribs.
Everyday Dinners: Even for a simple weeknight, funeral potatoes can elevate meatloaf, crispy baked fish, or even a hearty vegetarian bean burger.

To round out your meal, consider serving a light, fresh salad to cut through the richness of the potatoes, or some steamed green beans for a pop of color and freshness. The comforting nature of this dish makes it universally loved and suitable for nearly any table.

Discover More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

If you love comforting and easy side dishes, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes that are perfect for any meal:

Creamed Corn: Sweet, rich, and creamy, this classic corn dish is a delightful addition to any meal.
Broccoli Casserole: A cheesy and satisfying way to get your greens, perfect for families.
Slow Cooker Pinto Beans: A flavorful and hands-off recipe for tender, seasoned pinto beans.
Bacon Three Cheese Potatoes: An indulgent potato dish loaded with bacon and a trio of cheeses.
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: All the flavors of a loaded baked potato in an easy-to-serve casserole form.

I absolutely love creating and sharing delicious recipes and kitchen experiences with all of you! To make sure you never miss out on a new recipe, I offer a convenient newsletter delivered right to your inbox every time a new dish is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes to inspire your next meal!

Funeral Potatoes

These funeral potatoes are hands down one of the best dishes to feed a crowd with about 20 minutes of prep time.

5 from 8 votes

IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
American

Servings:

12
servings

1 hr

Calories:
352

Author:
Amanda Davis

Ingredients

2
pounds
frozen diced hashbrown potatoes
thawed, 1 bag
2
teaspoons
garlic salt
2
teaspoons
black pepper
1
Tablespoon
dried minced onion
2
cups
sour cream
1
cup
cream of chicken soup
8
ounces
shredded cheddar cheese
4
cups
corn flakes
2
cups
Ritz crackers
4
Tablespoons
unsalted butter
melted and divided

Things You’ll Need

13×9 baking dish
Vinyl gloves
Mixing bowls

Before You Begin & Tips

Topping Texture: You have control over the topping’s crunch! Lightly crush the crackers and cereal for larger, more rustic pieces, or crush them more finely for a consistent, delicate crumb.
Make-Ahead Instructions: For convenience, prepare the entire casserole (the potato mixture in the baking dish) a day in advance, but do not add the Ritz and cornflake topping. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking on the day of serving. If baking from cold, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
Storing Leftovers: Leftover funeral potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Note that the topping will likely lose its crispness once refrigerated.
Potato Choice: If frozen diced hashbrowns aren’t available or preferred, you can easily substitute with frozen shredded hashbrowns for a slightly different texture. Ensure they are thawed regardless of type.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, using gloved hands, combine thawed hash brown potatoes, garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth.
Add the shredded cheese, the soup mixture, the seasoned potato mixture, and 2 tablespoons of the melted butter to a large bowl. Use gloved hands to combine all ingredients very well, ensuring the potatoes are thoroughly coated.
For the topping, place corn flakes and Ritz crackers in a medium bowl and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss to combine. Transfer the mixture to a large zipper plastic bag and use the back of a measuring cup or a rolling pin to crush it to your desired consistency.
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Evenly distribute the crushed cereal/cracker mixture over the top.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Nutrition Information

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Follow on Pinterest @AmandasCookin or tag #AmandasCookin!

The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.