Save It When it comes to comfort food that warms the soul and brings people together, few dishes rival the classic potato casserole. This Cozy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is a staple at gatherings, known for its irresistibly creamy texture and golden, crispy topping. It is the kind of side dish that turns a simple meal into a celebration, offering a nostalgic flavor that reminds everyone of home-cooked goodness and shared moments around the table.
Save It Whether you call them party potatoes, cheesy potatoes, or funeral potatoes, this dish has earned its reputation as the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into a holiday spread or a casual weeknight dinner. The secret lies in the balance of seasonings—garlic, onion, and a touch of paprika—that elevate the simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients
- Potatoes & Dairy: 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes (thawed), 2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups (480 ml) sour cream, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter (melted).
- Sauces & Seasoning: 1 (10.5 oz/295 g) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian), 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Topping: 3 cups (about 225 g) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed), 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter (melted), 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, combine the diced hash brown potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Step 3
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
- Step 4
- In a medium bowl, toss the shredded hash browns with 2 tablespoons melted butter and paprika until coated.
- Step 5
- Evenly sprinkle the hashbrown mixture over the casserole.
- Step 6
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Step 7
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, make sure your hash browns are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. Greasing the baking dish well is essential for easy serving and cleanup. For even cooking, ensure the mixture is spread in a uniform layer before adding the topping.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian-friendly version, simply swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery. If you want to add more flavor and texture, consider mixing in chopped green onions or half a cup of crispy cooked bacon bits. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a subtle kick.
Serviervorschläge
This rich side dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans to balance the creaminess. It is a traditional accompaniment to roasted meats such as ham, turkey, or chicken, making it a versatile choice for any large meal.
Save It With its warm, bubbling cheese and golden crust, this Cozy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is guaranteed to be the star of your next potluck. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a dish that has been loved for generations and continues to bring comfort to every table it graces.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What can I use to make this vegetarian?
Swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup to keep the casserole vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How do I get the hashbrown topping crispy?
Coat the shredded hashbrowns with melted butter and paprika before sprinkling on top, then bake uncovered until golden and crisp.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and topping in advance, then refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → Are there any common allergens in this dish?
This dish contains dairy products and may include gluten and soy depending on the soup choice. Check ingredient labels if concerned.
- → How can I add extra flavor or texture?
Mix in crushed cornflakes or crackers to the topping for crunch, or add cooked bacon or chopped green onions to the base mix.