Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Nothing says comfort food quite like a hearty dish of Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy). This classic casserole is a beloved staple in many homes, especially during gatherings and celebrations. The creamy texture, combined with a crispy, golden topping, makes it a showstopper on any dinner table. Perhaps this dish evokes memories of family gatherings or potlucks where it was always the first item to disappear. You’ll learn how to prepare this indulgent dish, the special ingredients that elevate it, tips for perfect results, and ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
What Is Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy)?
Funeral Potatoes is a casserole dish that originated in the United States, often featured at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and even funerals as a comforting side dish. The base of this recipe is typically made from frozen hashbrowns, which provide a hearty, satisfying texture. The dish is then combined with a creamy mixture of soup and cheese, creating an indulgent, rich flavor that makes each bite a delight.
The addition of cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delectable creaminess that keeps everyone coming back for more. When baked, the top develops a beautiful golden crust, providing a contrast to the soft, fluffy filling underneath. The aroma wafting from the oven as this dish bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Each forkful delivers a combination of cheesy goodness and comforting textures, making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns a truly unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This
There are several reasons why you will fall in love with this recipe. Firstly, it offers an incredible balance of flavors and textures. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the crispy topping, creating an unforgettable eating experience. Additionally, the dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible for beginners or busy parents who may not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Just a few quick steps and you’ll have a dish ready to impress!
Another benefit is its affordability. With simple ingredients that won’t break the bank, you can feed a crowd without feeling guilty about your budget. This dish is flexible and can easily be customized according to dietary preferences or ingredient availability, making it versatile. You can explore variations, whether you want to keep it vegetarian or add protein. Misconceptions about casseroles being bland or boring are quickly dispelled once you experience the layers of flavor in Funeral Potatoes—this recipe ensures you’ll never look at a potato dish the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your very own Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy), gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns: Use the shredded variety for the best texture. Fresh potatoes can be used as a substitute, but you’ll need to slice and par-cook them first.
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup: This adds a creamy base; however, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and adds a slight tang that balances the richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that extra cheesy experience! For more flavor, consider a sharp cheddar.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Adds richness and helps the top brown beautifully.
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes: Used for topping; they add a delightful crunch, but you can also use panko breadcrumbs if desired.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion: This adds an additional layer of flavor; feel free to skip it if you prefer a simpler taste.
Getting the right ingredients is crucial for creating that balanced flavor and texture that’s key to a good Funeral Potatoes dish.
How to Make
Follow these simple steps to whip up your delectable Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy):
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step that ensures even cooking throughout the dish. A well-preheated oven helps achieve that delicious golden crust on top.
- Prepare the hashbrowns: Take your frozen hashbrowns and let them thaw for a few minutes in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using fresh potatoes instead, ensure they’re par-cooked and shredded to an even consistency. This ensures even cooking and enhances the dish’s overall texture.
- Mix the creamy base: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well until fully combined. This creates a creamy mixture that will coat the hashbrowns beautifully.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the thawed hashbrowns to the creamy soup mixture, stirring carefully to ensure every strand is coated. Then, fold in the shredded cheese—reserve a small amount for topping later. Don’t forget to mix in the optional onions, if you desire a bit more flavor!
- Season: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. This step elevates the flavor profile of your casserole. Remember that cheese and soups can be salty, so be cautious!
- Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the potato mixture into it. Evenly spread it out with a spatula for consistent cooking and browning.
- Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining shredded cheese with the crushed cornflakes. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture. This ensures a crunchy, cheesy topping once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll want it to bubble and turn golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
- Let it cool slightly: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice and serve your Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy) alongside your favorite meals. Watch everyone come back for seconds!
These simple but specific steps ensure that even kitchen novices can achieve mouthwatering results. The layers of flavor, creaminess, and crunch will undoubtedly impress your family and friends.
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Variation: If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. This change not only makes the dish suitable for vegetarians but also adds an earthy flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully. You can also experiment by adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra flavor punch. These ingredients will help keep the casserole interesting and add different textures.
Loaded Baked Potato Style: For those who love loaded baked potatoes, why not transform your casserole into something even more decadent? Add cooked bacon bits and green onions to the creamy mixture before baking. The smokiness from the bacon adds depth to the dish, while the green onions bring a fresh brightness. You can even top it off with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives before serving for a lovely presentation.
Cheesy Broccoli Variation: To include vegetables in this dish, add fresh or frozen broccoli florets to the hashbrowns. Blanch the broccoli first to ensure that it cooks evenly in the casserole. This veggie-packed variation not only adds nutrition but also gives a colorful contrast to the creamy potatoes. It’s an excellent option if you are looking to increase your vegetable intake without compromising on flavor.
Spicy Variation: For a little kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy mixture. This change will add a delightful heat that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dish. If you’re serving this for a party, this spicy version might just be the crowd-pleaser you’re looking for!
By exploring these variations, you can tailor Funeral Potatoes to suit your personal preferences, dietary restrictions, or the occasion at hand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best-intentioned cooks can run into issues when making Funeral Potatoes. One common mistake is using frozen hashbrowns straight from the freezer without thawing. This can result in uneven cooking, with some parts being overly soggy while others remain undercooked. Always let the hashbrowns thaw for a few minutes, ensuring even baking.
Another pitfall is overlooking seasoning. While the ingredients like cheese and soups may contribute saltiness, it’s essential to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor further. Taste your mixture before transferring it to the baking dish and adjust accordingly.
Finally, a mistake that many make is not letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cutting into it right away can cause it to fall apart and result in a messy serving. Allowing the dish to set for about 10 minutes makes for cleaner slices and overall better presentation.
By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can ensure a successful outcome for your Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy).
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Proper storage is vital to maintaining the quality of your Funeral Potatoes. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, making sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
For longer storage, consider freezing your casserole. You can either freeze it before baking—just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil—or after it’s been baked. If you opt to freeze it before cooking, plan to cook it from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process. If you’re reheating a baked version, separate the portion you’d like to eat from the rest to minimize the risk of overcooking.
When reheating, aim for an oven temperature of about 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave, but note that you may lose that crispy topping.
Always adhere to food safety standards and make sure to consume leftovers within recommended timeframes to enjoy them at their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it ideal for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests instead of being in the kitchen.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, fresh potatoes work well in this dish, but make sure to par-cook and shred them for the best texture. You might find that using fresh potatoes adds a subtle earthy flavor that can be delightful.
What other cheese can I use in this recipe?
While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Mixing different cheeses can create a unique blend that elevates your casserole.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Typically, this dish isn’t gluten-free due to the use of cream of chicken soup which may contain gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soup and an appropriate crunchy topping, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How do I make the top extra crispy?
To enhance the crispiness of the topping, consider broiling the dish for a few minutes at the end of the baking process. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Conclusion:
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Extra Cheesy) is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that elevates any meal with its rich, creamy texture and delightful crunch. This recipe is incredibly flexible, easily adjusted to meet different tastes and dietary needs. Gather your loved ones, cook this dish, and enjoy sharing laughter, conversation, and of course, delicious food around the table. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a family favorite you’ll want to make time and again!
