Savory Cheesy Funeral Potatoes A Comforting Classic Recipe

Published: December 5, 2025

Updated: December 26, 2025

There’s something undeniably comforting about gathering around a table filled with family favorites, each dish carrying a story and a memory. One of those dishes that always finds its way into my heart (and my family gatherings) is Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. It’s a dish that whispers warmth and nostalgia, evoking memories of late-night chats in the kitchen and shared laughter over gooey, golden squares. Traditionally served at potlucks and gatherings, it’s simple enough to throw together on a busy weeknight yet special enough to impress guests. Let’s dig into this cheesy delight that brings people together and warms the soul!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grab your comfy socks and a cozy blanket because we’re about to embark on a cheesy adventure! If you’re looking for a recipe that balances ease and deliciousness, you’ve hit the jackpot. Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are perfect for busy nights when you want something that feels like a hug. Picture creamy potatoes enveloped in melted cheese, topped with a golden, crispy layer. It’s like having a restaurant-style dish ready right in your kitchen.

Not only does this dish expertly blend convenience and comfort, but it also becomes a talking point at gatherings, sparking smiles and “can I have the recipe?” requests. Plus, it can easily be prepped ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for those evenings when your calendar seems too packed. What’s not to love?

What It Tastes Like

Picture this: you take a forkful of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, and as you bring it to your mouth, the aroma wraps around you like a cozy blanket fresh out of the dryer. The first bite delivers a creamy explosion of flavor. The potatoes are tender, like they’ve been lovingly cradled in a warm embrace, while the cheese stretches delightfully as you pull away, creating a connection that feels almost spiritual.

This dish is an orchestra of textures. Think crispy edges giving way to a softer, melting heart. It’s like that first warm bite of comfort after a long day, instantly transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and love. The blend of seasonings dances on the palate, a gentle reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs frozen hash brown potatoes: The backbone of our dish, providing that creamy, starchy goodness.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich flavor and a creamy texture that ties everything together.
1 cup sour cream: Infuses the dish with tangy creaminess that keeps it moist.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheese? It adds melty, gooey deliciousness.
1/2 cup butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
1 cup corn flakes (or panko breadcrumbs): Provides the necessary crunch for a delightful contrast.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Just a hint of garlic to elevate the flavor—because garlic is life!
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and complements the cheese.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Optional Additions

Diced green onions: Sprinkle on top for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Crispy bacon bits: Because everything’s better with bacon!
Different cheeses: Swap in a blend of your favorites; Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a new dimension.

Special Garnishes

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of color always brightens up this comforting dish.
Chopped chives: Adds a fresh, oniony flavor that balances the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you whip up this cheesy goodness in no time!

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to preheat for even cooking—imagine each bite being perfect!
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens! Mix until everything is well combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or whatever you have handy). Pour the cheesy potato mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. It’s like laying a cozy foundation for our dish!
Add the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the corn flakes with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and a drizzle of melted butter. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture on top of your potatoes. This is where you’ll really want to get creative—make sure it’s nice and even!
Bake: Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point, and you might find it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help it set a bit, making it easier to scoop out those cheesy squares. Serve it warm, and watch the smiles spread across faces.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to switch up this classic recipe!

Loaded Funeral Potatoes: Add some diced jalapeños or bell peppers for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom to keep it creamy but meat-free.
Herb-packed: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

Serving & Storage Tips

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they hold up beautifully for leftovers. To store, simply cover them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. When it’s time to reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or give them a quick zap in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just remember, the crispy topping might not retain its crunch when microwaved.

And leftovers? Try using them as a filling for stuffed baked potatoes or mix them into scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast twist!

Helpful Tips

Over the years, I’ve gathered a few golden nuggets of wisdom about making Cheesy Funeral Potatoes:

Don’t skip the butter: It’s not just for flavor—it helps achieve that sought-after golden crust!
Let it sit: After baking, let the dish rest. It might be tempting to dive in right away, but giving it a few minutes allows everything to set up nicely.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to play around with the seasonings—everyone has their own twist to make it uniquely theirs!

Special Equipment

Large mixing bowl: You need one that can hold all that cheesy goodness without making a mess.
9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for evenly cooking the dish, ensuring crispy edges and a soft center.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements keep the flavors in balance—trust me, it makes all the difference!
Spatula: For easy mixing and serving—plus, no one enjoys scrubbing a bowl!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking!

Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?

Yes! Just assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Certainly! Just use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap corn flakes for a gluten-free crunchy option.

What can I serve with it?

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes pair beautifully with baked ham, roasted chicken, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. It truly shines as a side dish!

Do I have to use sour cream?

If you’re not a fan, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are more than just a recipe; they’re a symbol of comfort, community, and nostalgia. There’s something magical about sharing a dish that brings warmth and happiness to the table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply to indulge yourself after a long day, it’s sure to leave everyone with full hearts (and bellies!). I can’t wait for you to try this—may it become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. If you experiment with your own twists, please come back and share your version or stories in the comments—I love hearing from fellow foodies!