Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate creamy, cheesy potato casserole, crowned with a buttery, crunchy cornflake topping. Often dubbed “gooey potatoes” or “party potatoes,” this dish is a beloved staple at gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. While the name might sound somber, Funeral Potatoes are pure comfort food, perfect for bringing people together. Let’s explore why this recipe, reminiscent of the hearty, comforting dishes you might find from the Pioneer Woman herself, is a timeless classic.
Close-up of Funeral Potatoes showcasing the creamy potato filling and golden cornflake topping
Why “Funeral Potatoes”? The Story Behind the Name
The intriguing name “Funeral Potatoes” comes from their traditional role as a dish served at funeral dinners or luncheons, particularly within the Mormon culture of Utah and surrounding areas. Their ease of preparation, ability to feed a large crowd, and comforting nature make them an ideal choice during times of mourning. This casserole offers a sense of warmth and familiarity, much like the comforting recipes championed by the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, known for her hearty, family-style cooking.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Style Funeral Potatoes
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of Funeral Potatoes:
- Hash Browns: The base of any great Funeral Potato recipe. Frozen shredded hash browns are convenient, but you can also use diced hash browns or even fresh potatoes if you prefer a more rustic, Pioneer Woman style approach.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides the creamy, savory foundation of the casserole. Cream of mushroom soup can also be used for a slight variation in flavor.
- Melted Butter: Essential for both the potato mixture and the crunchy cornflake topping. Butter adds richness and flavor that’s undeniably comforting.
- Corn Flakes: The secret to the signature crunchy topping. Some variations use potato chips, but corn flakes offer a classic texture and subtle sweetness.
- Green Onions: Add a mild onion flavor and a touch of freshness to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Generous amounts of cheese are key to the gooey, cheesy goodness of Funeral Potatoes. Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess, contributing to the overall texture and flavor profile.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this comforting casserole is surprisingly simple. Follow these easy steps to bake your own Funeral Potatoes:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and sliced green onions. Mix until well combined.
- Add Hash Browns: Add the thawed hash browns to the bowl and mix thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Mixing the potato and cheese mixture for Funeral Potatoes in a large bowl
- Prepare Cornflake Topping: Lightly crush the corn flakes in a ziploc bag. In a separate small bowl, stir together the crushed corn flakes and melted butter. Set aside for topping.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the potato mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the foil from the casserole dish. Sprinkle the cornflake topping evenly over the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are bubbling hot and the cornflake topping is golden brown and crunchy.
Funeral Potatoes baked in a casserole dish, ready to be served
Tips and Variations for Your Funeral Potatoes
- Make it from Scratch: For a truly homemade touch, you can replace frozen hash browns with fresh grated potatoes. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes before adding them to the mixture.
- Freezing Instructions: Funeral Potatoes are freezer-friendly! To freeze, prepare the casserole as directed but do not add the cornflake topping. Freeze the potato mixture in a freezer-safe dish. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then top with the cornflake mixture and bake as instructed.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all be delicious.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of black pepper, a dash of garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of paprika to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Funeral Potatoes
Funeral Potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals. They are perfect for:
- Holiday Dinners: A welcome addition to Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving feasts, offering a comforting alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: Easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser, Funeral Potatoes are ideal for potlucks, barbecues, and family reunions.
- Comfort Food Cravings: Sometimes you just need a warm, cheesy, and comforting dish. Funeral Potatoes are the perfect answer!
Serving of Funeral Potatoes, highlighting the creamy texture and crunchy topping
Whether you call them Funeral Potatoes, gooey potatoes, or cheesy potato casserole, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Embrace the comforting simplicity of this dish, reminiscent of classic Pioneer Woman recipes, and bring a touch of heartwarming goodness to your next meal.
