Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are a delightful and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy family dinner, this cheesy potato casserole is sure to impress. Loaded with creamy goodness and topped with a crunchy cornflake layer, these potatoes make the ultimate side dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up this delicious casserole.
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of sour cream and two types of cheese creates an irresistible creamy texture.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a comforting weeknight meal; it fits any occasion!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is loved by both kids and adults alike—perfect for family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, saving you time.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking spatula
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving.
- Mixing Bowls: Using large mixing bowls helps combine ingredients without mess.
- Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, enhancing flavor.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 32 ounces diced hash brown potatoes (or shredded hash brown potatoes, defrosted)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ medium onion (diced)
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Combine Cheeses
In a small bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Toss them together until evenly mixed. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
In a very large bowl, place the defrosted potatoes. Add in 4 tablespoons of melted butter along with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated.
Step 4: Mix in Creamy Ingredients
Stir in the sour cream along with 2 cups of the combined cheeses from Step 2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside for now.
How to Serve Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes, or Funeral Potatoes, are a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With a Salad
- Garden Salad – A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a crisp contrast to the creamy cheesy potatoes.
- Caesar Salad – The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons enhance the richness of the cheesy casserole.
As a Breakfast Dish
- With Eggs – Serve cheesy potatoes alongside scrambled or fried eggs for a hearty breakfast that fuels your day.
- Breakfast Burritos – Wrap cheesy potatoes in tortillas with eggs and salsa for a delicious on-the-go meal.
During Celebrations
- At Potlucks – Cheesy potatoes are always a hit at gatherings. They can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature.
- Holiday Dinners – Pair with your holiday main dishes like ham or turkey for a comforting side that everyone loves.
With Grilled Meats
- Steak or Chicken – The rich flavors of grilled meats pair beautifully with the creamy texture of cheesy potatoes.
- Barbecue Ribs – Add a Southern twist by serving with smoky barbecue ribs for an indulgent meal.
How to Perfect Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.
- Boldly Season – Ensure you season each layer; this enhances flavor throughout the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes superior compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Adjust Consistency – If the mixture seems too thick, add more milk or broth gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Crispy Topping – For an extra crunch, bake slightly longer or broil for the last few minutes to brown the cornflake topping perfectly.
- Rest Before Serving – Letting the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes after baking allows it to set up, making it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with many side dishes. Here’s a list of great options to serve alongside this delicious casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables – A colorful medley of seasonal veggies adds nutrition and balance to your plate.
- Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the creamy potatoes wonderfully.
- Coleslaw – A tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the richness of cheesy potatoes.
- Macaroni Salad – This classic side is perfect for potlucks and pairs seamlessly in taste and texture.
- Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans add depth and heartiness when served together.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that beautifully balances salty cheesy flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cheesy Potatoes, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using frozen potatoes directly: Frozen hash browns should be defrosted before use to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your cheesy potatoes adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper.
- Overbaking the casserole: Cooking for too long can dry out the dish. Watch the baking time closely for a perfectly creamy result.
- Not mixing ingredients well: Make sure to combine all ingredients thoroughly. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the casserole.
- Ignoring the topping: The cornflake topping adds a nice crunch. Don’t forget to mix it with melted butter for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheesy Potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
- Place cooled Cheesy Potatoes in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- These can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20–25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare Cheesy Potatoes a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving.
What cheese works best for Funeral Potatoes?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal, but feel free to mix it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, green onions, or different vegetables based on your preference.
How do I prevent my Cheesy Potatoes from being too watery?
Ensure that any excess moisture is drained from your potatoes before mixing them with other ingredients.
Are Cheesy Potatoes suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Potatoes! Just make sure they are stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. This dish is perfect as a side at gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes, often affectionately known as Funeral Potatoes, are a comforting and indulgent dish that brings joy to any table. This creamy casserole is loaded with fluffy hash browns, tangy sour cream, and a delightful blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Topped with a crunchy cornflake layer, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, Cheesy Potatoes can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving. Whether you’re looking for a side dish that complements your main course or a hearty addition to brunch, these cheesy delights will impress everyone at the table.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 32 ounces diced or shredded hash brown potatoes (defrosted)
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine defrosted potatoes with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in sour cream and both types of cheese until well mixed.
- Add flour and chicken broth to achieve desired creaminess.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or green onions. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some diced jalapeños.
