Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Hash brown potatoes: These are the base of the dish, providing a starchy, comforting texture.

Cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, savory flavor and creamy consistency to the casserole.

Sour cream: Contributes to the creaminess and slight tanginess of the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Onions: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, sweet flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the flavor.

Cornflakes: These are crushed and used as a crunchy topping for the casserole.

Butter: Melted and mixed with the cornflakes to create a golden, crispy topping.

When preparing hash brown potatoes for this recipe, ensure they are fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onions in a bit of butter until they are translucent before mixing them into the potato mixture. This will bring out their sweetness and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• thawed frozen hash brown potatoes - Substitute with freshly grated potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor, though they may require additional cooking time.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup offers a similar creamy consistency and savory flavor, making it a suitable alternative.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, while also being a healthier option with more protein.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Colby Jack cheese: Colby Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• chopped onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a subtle depth to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a bit of extra flavor along with the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist to the dish.

• crushed cornflakes - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunchy texture and can be seasoned to taste.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and moisture, with a slightly different flavor that can complement the dish.

• Allow the funeral potatoes to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• For freezing, portion the funeral potatoes into individual servings or keep them whole in a freezer-safe container. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy.
• If reheating from frozen, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cornflake topping to crisp up.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover funeral potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cornflake topping.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, place the potatoes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the cornflakes.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are hot and the top is crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, salt, and black pepper.

• Baking dish: Used to spread the potato mixture evenly for baking.

• Separate bowl: Needed to mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and crushed cornflakes accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and black pepper.

• Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the mixing bowl.

• Knife: Used to chop the onions finely.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onions.

• Can opener: Required to open the can of cream of chicken soup.

• Mixing spoon: Useful for stirring the cornflakes and melted butter together.

• Aluminum foil: Can be used to cover the baking dish if the top starts to brown too quickly during baking.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by using pre-chopped onions from the store instead of chopping them yourself.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on preparation time.

Microwave hash browns: Quickly thaw frozen hash browns in the microwave instead of waiting for them to thaw naturally.

One-bowl mixing: Combine all ingredients in one large mixing bowl to minimize cleanup time.

Pre-crushed cornflakes: Purchase pre-crushed cornflakes or crush them in advance to streamline the topping process.