Ingredients:
- 1 (2 lb) bag of frozen southern style/diced hash browns
- 16 oz sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Well:
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the hash browns are evenly coated.
- Crush Corn Flakes:
- Crush about 2 cups of corn flakes using your hands or a rolling pin. Spread the crushed corn flakes evenly over the hash brown mixture.
- Pour Butter Over the Top:
- Drizzle 6 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the crushed corn flakes.
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender. The top should be golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Ahead (Optional):
- If prepping ahead, you can combine all the ingredients in the baking dish, excluding the crushed corn flakes and melted butter. Refrigerate the dish until ready to bake.
- Just before baking, crush the corn flakes, pour melted butter over the top, and then bake as directed.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this delicious and comforting cheesy hash brown casserole!
Note:
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding diced onions, green onions, or your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.
- This recipe is versatile and makes for a great side dish for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Q1: Why are they called “funeral potatoes”?
A: The term “funeral potatoes” is often used colloquially, as this type of casserole is commonly served at funeral gatherings or other communal events. It’s a comforting and easy dish to prepare for a crowd during times of shared mourning or celebration of life.
Q2: Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, funeral potatoes can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Just assemble the dish, excluding the cornflakes and butter topping, then cover it tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed, possibly extending the baking time slightly.
Q3: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: While the traditional recipe calls for frozen hash browns, you can use fresh grated potatoes. However, keep in mind that the texture and consistency may differ, and you might need to adjust the cooking time.
Q4: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup if I prefer a different flavor?
A: If you want to change the flavor, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or any other cream-based soup that complements your taste preferences.
Q5: Can I make funeral potatoes with a gluten-free option?
A: Yes, you can make funeral potatoes gluten-free by using gluten-free cream soup and ensuring that all other ingredients, including the seasonings, are gluten-free.
Q6: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is commonly used, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend to add variety to the dish.
Q7: What can I serve with funeral potatoes?
A: Funeral potatoes are often served as a side dish and pair well with ham, roast chicken, or other main courses. They are also suitable for brunch or breakfast gatherings.
Q8: Can I make funeral potatoes in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Mix all the ingredients, excluding the cornflakes and butter topping, in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender. Add the topping just before serving.
Q9: How long can funeral potatoes be stored in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover funeral potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q10: Can I omit the cornflakes and butter topping?
A: While the topping adds a crunchy texture, you can omit it if you prefer. The casserole will still be delicious without it