Funeral Potatoes Recipe – Cheesy, Creamy & Totally Irresistible 🥔🧀✨
There’s a reason this dish is passed around at every church potluck, family gathering, and yes — even funerals. It’s that good , and everyone wants seconds !
This Funeral Potatoes recipe layers tender hash browns in a luscious blend of sour cream , cheddar , and Monterey Jack cheese , then tops it all with golden, buttery breadcrumbs or cornflakes for the perfect crunch.
It’s an easy, make-ahead side dish that bakes to bubbly perfection — perfect for busy weeknights, holiday meals, or when you want to bring something comforting to the table.
Let’s dive into how to make this ultimate comfort classic!
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Creamy & cheesy : A dreamy sauce coats every bite.
- Perfect texture contrast : Soft potatoes on the bottom, crispy top layer.
- Great for gatherings : Feeds a crowd and disappears fast!
- Easy to prep ahead : Assemble one day, bake the next — total convenience.
- Comfort food gold : The kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
For the potato base:
- 32 oz (about 2 lbs) frozen hash brown potatoes , defrosted (shredded or diced)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter , melted (¼ cup / ½ stick)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese , grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese , grated
For the crunchy topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes (for classic texture)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Optional: 1 tsp paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor in the topping
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring tools
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl for topping
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prep the Hash Browns
If using frozen hash browns:
- Thaw them completely — no need to cook.
- If they’re too wet, gently pat dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl:
- Combine:
- Hash browns
- Melted butter
- Salt and pepper
Then stir in:
- Sour cream
- Grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses
Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl:
- Mix:
- Breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
- Melted butter
- Paprika or garlic powder (optional)
Sprinkle generously over the top of the potato mixture.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes .
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes , until the top is golden and crisp, and the edges are bubbling.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps set the layers.
Step 7: Serve Warm & Share the Joy
These Funeral Potatoes are best served warm, straight from the pan.
They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even on their own as a hearty vegetarian side.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- With a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top.
- Try it with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or green onions .
- Stack on a plate with roasted veggies or a simple salad .
- Drizzle with truffle oil or hot sauce for gourmet flair.
- Perfect alongside grilled steak or baked ham .
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days .
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the night before and refrigerate — bake just before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to restore crispiness.
✅ Expert Tips for Success
- Use room temperature sour cream and cheese for smoother blending.
- Don’t skip draining excess moisture from thawed hash browns — it prevents sogginess.
- Want extra richness? Add ½ cup mayonnaise or canned cream of mushroom soup to the mix.
- Swap cheddar with Gouda or smoked cheese for deeper flavor.
- Make it vegetarian : Skip bacon garnish or use smoked salt for depth.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
While indulgent, this dish offers some satisfying nutrition:
- Potatoes deliver potassium and energy-sustaining carbs.
- Cheese and sour cream provide calcium and protein in moderation.
- Butter adds richness and flavor without overpowering.
- Enjoy as part of a balanced meal — especially with greens or lean proteins.
📝 Final Thoughts
Funeral Potatoes prove that sometimes the best dishes come from humble beginnings — and a few generous scoops of cheese.
With its creamy center, crispy top, and deep dairy-rich flavor, it’s the kind of side dish that brings people together — whether it’s at a potluck, holiday dinner, or quiet family meal.
So grab your 9×13-inch pan, layer in the love, and serve up a batch of potatoes that truly deserves a standing ovation — even if it’s not at a funeral!
