Name: Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag (30–32 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 2 cups sour cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup salted butter, melted (divided); ½ cup chopped onion (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups crushed corn flakes; Additional melted butter from the ½ cup (approximately 2 tablespoons reserved for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 188 reviews

If you’re searching for a comfort food classic that brings warmth to any table, look no further than this cherished Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe. This rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole combines tender shredded hash browns with a savory blend of cream soup, sharp cheddar, and crisp corn flakes, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Whether served at family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers comforting flavors and textures that will make you feel right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a white round bowl filled mostly with bright orange shredded cheese. On top of the cheese, there are light yellow shredded pieces mixed with small white pieces that look like chopped onions. A woman's hand is holding a red spoon, stirring the cheese and onion mix from the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but come together perfectly to create a casserole that’s creamy, crispy, and bursting with flavor. Each plays a crucial role in building the texture and taste that make this dish so special.

Frozen shredded hash browns (30–32 oz): The base of the casserole, providing that perfect tender and slightly crispy potato texture.
Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): Adds a smooth, savory creaminess that binds everything together beautifully.
Sour cream (2 cups): Enhances the dish with tangy richness, keeping the potatoes moist and flavorful.
Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts marvelously, contributing bold cheese flavor and creaminess.
Salted butter (½ cup, melted): Divided between the mixture and topping, it adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
Chopped onion (½ cup, optional): Provides a subtle savory bite and a touch of sweetness, elevating the flavor profile.
Crushed corn flakes (2 cups): The secret to a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every element of the casserole.

How to Make Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by thawing the frozen shredded hash browns completely, as excess moisture can affect the casserole’s texture. If using onion, chop it finely to ensure it cooks and blends nicely into the dish.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter (reserve half for later), and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy base is what makes the casserole irresistibly rich and cheesy.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Onion

Add the thawed hash browns and chopped onion (if using) to the creamy mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper, then fold everything together gently, making sure the potatoes are evenly coated without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking and browning.

Step 5: Create the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the remaining melted butter until the flakes are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to form the golden, crunchy crust that everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe

A golden casserole sits in a square pan on a white marbled surface, topped with a thick, crunchy layer of crushed cornflakes that cover the entire dish. A woman's hand is holding a spoon scooping out one portion from the bottom left corner, revealing a creamy, light yellow layer underneath the crispy cornflake topping. In front of the pan, there is an empty white bowl ready to receive the scoop. The image shows texture contrast between the crunchy cornflakes on top and the smooth, soft inside of the casserole photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, a few dashes of smoked paprika can enhance the visual appeal and provide a subtle warmth to the flavor.

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with protein-rich sides like roasted chicken, glazed ham, or tender meatloaf. For a lighter balance, serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to complement the creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider turning this classic into single-serving portions in ramekins or muffin tins for individual comfort food bites. You can also layer extras like sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon bits inside for a fun twist that elevates the traditional Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The casserole keeps well, and the flavors actually deepen after a day or two.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully! Assemble the casserole as usual but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time as needed until hot and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover casserole portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the crisp topping and creamy interior better than microwaving, which can sometimes make the topping soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.

What can I use instead of crushed corn flakes for the topping?

Panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even crushed pretzels make excellent alternatives, giving that sought-after crunch with a slightly different flavor profile.

Is it okay to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

You can, but it’s a bit more labor-intensive since you’d need to peel, shred, and partially cook the potatoes to achieve the right texture. Frozen hash browns save time and offer consistent results.

How spicy is this casserole?

The traditional Funeral Potatoes recipe is mild and creamy, perfect for all palates. If you want a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture before baking.

Can this casserole be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free cream soup and substitute the crushed corn flakes with gluten-free crackers or gluten-free corn flakes to accommodate dietary needs without compromising taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely heartwarming about making a dish like the Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole) Recipe. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones any day of the week. Whether you’re new to this classic or revisiting it, this casserole has a way of bringing smiles and full bellies. So grab those ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!