Few dishes carry the emotional weight and comforting allure of funeral potatoes. This creamy, cheesy, potato-based casserole, often made with hash browns, has become a staple at gatherings across the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Mountain West. While its name might suggest a somber origin, funeral potatoes are anything but gloomy—they’re a celebration of community, comfort, and simple ingredients coming together to create something deeply satisfying. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of funeral potatoes, explore why they’ve earned their unique moniker, and provide a detailed, foolproof recipe for making funeral potatoes with hash browns that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

The Origins of Funeral Potatoes

Funeral potatoes are deeply rooted in American culinary tradition, particularly within the culture of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), also known as the Mormon Church. Originating in Utah, where the LDS Church is headquartered, this dish emerged as a practical and hearty option for feeding large groups during post-funeral gatherings. The name “funeral potatoes” reflects their frequent appearance at these events, where community members would come together to support grieving families by providing food.

The dish’s practicality is key to its history. Potatoes, a staple crop in many regions, are affordable, filling, and versatile. When combined with pantry staples like cheese, cream, and a crunchy topping, they transform into a casserole that’s easy to prepare in large quantities. Over time, funeral potatoes transcended their original purpose, appearing at potlucks, holiday dinners, and family reunions. Today, they’re beloved not just for their taste but for the nostalgia and sense of togetherness they evoke.

The use of hash browns—a shredded, pre-cooked potato product—marks a modern evolution of the dish. Traditional recipes often called for diced or sliced fresh potatoes, but the convenience of frozen hash browns has made them a popular choice, especially for busy cooks. This adaptation maintains the dish’s signature texture while cutting down on prep time, making it even more accessible for home cooks.

Why Funeral Potatoes Endure

What makes funeral potatoes so enduring? At their core, they’re the epitome of comfort food. The combination of creamy sauce, tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a crispy topping hits all the right notes—rich yet balanced, hearty yet not overwhelming. It’s a dish that invites sharing, whether you’re mourning a loss or celebrating a milestone. Its versatility also plays a role: you can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Moreover, funeral potatoes carry a cultural weight that resonates beyond their ingredients. They’re a symbol of community support, a tangible way to show care when words fall short. In a world where convenience often trumps tradition, this dish bridges the gap, offering both ease and a connection to the past.

The Recipe: Funeral Potatoes with Hash Browns

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how to make funeral potatoes with hash browns. This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it perfect for a crowd, though you can easily halve it for a smaller group. It’s straightforward, beginner-friendly, and delivers the creamy, cheesy goodness that’s made this dish a legend.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 (30-ounce) bag of frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup (substitute cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (optional, about 1/2 cup)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be thick and creamy, with the cheese and potatoes well distributed.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, pressing it down slightly to compact it. This ensures even cooking and a cohesive texture.
4. Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until the flakes are evenly coated. If you’re using paprika, sprinkle it into the mixture for a pop of color. Spread the topping evenly over the casserole, covering the entire surface.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. If the topping browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to scoop. Serve warm, with a spatula or large spoon.

Total Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 50 minutes
• Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Tips for Success

• Thawing the Hash Browns: For the best texture, thaw the hash browns in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If you’re short on time, you can use them frozen, but increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes and check for doneness.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with blends like Colby-Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan for extra sharpness.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the topping) up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping just before baking, and increase the cook time by 5-10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Crispy Topping: Don’t skimp on the butter in the topping—it’s what gives the cornflakes their irresistible crunch. If cornflakes aren’t your thing, crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even potato chips work beautifully.

Variations to Try

Funeral potatoes are endlessly adaptable. Here are some creative spins to suit different tastes:

• Loaded Funeral Potatoes: Add 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/4 cup chopped green onions to the potato mixture for a loaded baked potato vibe.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery soup, and double-check that your cheese and sour cream are vegetarian-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a can of diced green chilies or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Healthier Twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduce the butter by half, and opt for a low-fat cheese. You’ll lose some richness, but it’ll still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Funeral potatoes are hearty enough to stand alone, but they shine as part of a larger meal. Pair them with:

• A protein like baked ham, roast chicken, or meatloaf for a classic comfort food spread.
• A green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness.
• Dinner rolls or cornbread to soak up any creamy remnants on your plate.

They’re also a fantastic side for holiday feasts—think Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter—where their warm, crowd-pleasing nature complements the festive atmosphere.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Beyond the kitchen, funeral potatoes have carved out a niche in American pop culture. They’ve been featured in cookbooks, food blogs, and even earned a nod in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where they were playfully dubbed a Utah staple. The dish has also inspired countless memes and social media posts, with fans celebrating its quirky name and irresistible flavor.

In LDS communities, funeral potatoes remain a symbol of service. The Relief Society, the church’s women’s organization, is often credited with perfecting and popularizing the recipe as part of their tradition of providing meals for families in need. This legacy of care continues to define the dish, even as it spreads to new audiences.

Nutritional Considerations

Let’s be honest—funeral potatoes aren’t a health food. A typical serving (about 1 cup) clocks in at around 350-400 calories, with significant amounts of fat and sodium from the cheese, butter, and soup. That said, it’s a treat meant for enjoyment, not everyday eating. If you’re watching your diet, enjoy them in moderation or try one of the lighter variations mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

Funeral potatoes with hash browns are more than just a recipe—they’re a story of resilience, community, and the power of simple ingredients to bring people together. Whether you’re making them for a funeral, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. With its creamy interior, cheesy goodness, and crunchy topping, it’s no wonder this casserole has stood the test of time.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and give this recipe a try. You might just find yourself starting a new tradition—or at least earning a few compliments at the next gathering. After all, in the world of comfort food, funeral potatoes reign supreme.