Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes! This dish is a beloved staple at gatherings, parties, and family events, guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles around the table. With a creamy base, layers of tender hash browns, and a golden, crunchy cornflake topping, it’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Perfect for potlucks or as a comforting side for any meal, these potatoes are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hash browns
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the right cozy temperature for baking.
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until every ingredient is beautifully blended, forming a creamy mixture.
- Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that each bite will be filled with cheesy goodness.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to smooth out the top.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This crunchy mixture will create a delightful topping!
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture generously over the top of the potato layer, creating a lovely golden crust as it bakes.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is hot and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon to the potato mixture.
- This dish can easily be prepared a day ahead. Just assemble and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve!
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a little kick.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe calls for basic baking techniques but focuses on layering textures — creamy potatoes and crispy topping. Using frozen hash browns not only simplifies the prep but ensures an easy assembly without compromising on flavor or texture. Be sure to check the doneness by looking for that gorgeous golden color and the bubbling edges!
FAQ
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns? Absolutely! Just peel and grate fresh potatoes before using them. You may need to adjust cooking time accordingly.
- What can I serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes? They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, salads, or grilled vegetables, making them a versatile side dish.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply replace the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version and use gluten-free cornflakes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are more than just a delightful dish; they’re a wonderful way to create memories with family and friends. Whether served at a potluck, holiday gathering, or simply as a comforting meal at home, each forkful will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy making this recipe, and watch as it becomes a beloved tradition in your own family kitchen!