Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are the ultimate comfort food! This easy hash brown casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these cheesy potatoes will impress everyone. The rich combination of creamy cheeses and crunchy cornflakes creates a mouthwatering dish that is hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy Potatoes are a warm and hearty side dish that pairs well with various main courses.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and gatherings, this dish is always a hit among guests.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this casserole without hassle.
  • Creamy and Cheesy: The blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like cooked bacon or vegetables for an extra twist.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to prepare these Cheesy Potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

  • 9×13 baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and browning of your cheesy potatoes.
  • Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space for combining all ingredients without spills or messes.

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 350F. Lightly grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine both shredded cheeses. Toss them together to ensure they are well mixed. Set this aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix the Hash Browns

In a very large bowl, place the defrosted potatoes. Toss these potatoes with 4 tablespoons of melted butter along with salt and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 4: Combine with Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the sour cream along with 2 cups of the combined cheese mixture. Ensure everything is well mixed before setting it aside for baking.

How to Serve Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

Cheesy Potatoes, often referred to as Funeral Potatoes, are a versatile dish that can complement many meals. They are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cheesy potato experience.

With a Protein

  • Baked Chicken: Serve these cheesy potatoes alongside juicy baked chicken for a comforting meal.
  • Grilled Steak: The rich flavors of steak pair beautifully with the creamy texture of cheesy potatoes.
  • Glazed Ham: A sweet and savory ham is perfect with the cheesy goodness of this casserole.

As a Brunch Dish

  • Scrambled Eggs: Pairing cheesy potatoes with fluffy scrambled eggs makes for a delightful brunch spread.
  • Breakfast Sausages: Add some crispy breakfast sausages for a hearty morning meal that everyone will love.

Topped with Greens

  • Sautéed Spinach: Adding sautéed spinach on top brings color and nutrition to your plate.
  • Fresh Parsley: Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and freshness.

How to Perfect Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

To make your Cheesy Potatoes truly outstanding, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure the best texture and flavor in every bite.

  • Bold Flavoring: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder taste that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Proper Mixing: Mix ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the casserole.
  • Cornflake Crunch: Don’t skip the cornflake topping! It adds an irresistible crunch that’s essential to this dish.
  • Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of sour cream based on how creamy you want your potatoes.
  • Bake Until Golden: Bake until the top is golden brown for both an appealing look and delicious taste.
Cheesy

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

Cheesy Potatoes make an excellent side dish, but they also pair wonderfully with various foods. Here are some great options to consider.

  1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the richness of cheesy potatoes.
  2. Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
  3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and texture that balances out the heaviness of cheesy potatoes.
  4. Garlic Bread: This classic side offers additional carbs and is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness.
  5. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that works well with the richness of this dish.
  6. Macaroni Salad: Another creamy side that pairs well; it adds variety without overshadowing the main star, cheesy potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:

  • Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the hash browns too long, they can turn mushy. Use defrosted potatoes and mix gently to maintain texture.
  • Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the mixture properly can lead to bland casserole. Always add salt and pepper to taste for maximum flavor.
  • Not using enough cheese: Cheese is key in this dish! Ensure you use the recommended amounts of both cheddar and Monterey Jack for that cheesy goodness.
  • Ignoring the topping: A crunchy cornflake topping adds texture. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for that delightful contrast!
  • Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too high or too low a temperature can affect cooking time and doneness. Stick to 350F for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store your Cheesy Potatoes in an airtight container.
  • They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
  • Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

  • You can freeze Cheesy Potatoes for up to 2 months.
  • Use a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  • Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking again.

Reheating Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F and bake covered with foil for about 25 minutes, then remove foil to crisp up the top.
  • Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Cheesy

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)?

Cheesy Potatoes, often referred to as Funeral Potatoes, are a creamy potato casserole made with hash browns, cheese, sour cream, and topped with crunchy cornflakes.

Can I make Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What types of cheese are best for Cheesy Potatoes?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are commonly used for their great melting qualities and flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses!

How do I customize my Cheesy Potatoes?

You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, green onions, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are not only a comforting side dish but also incredibly versatile. They pair well with various main dishes and allow for plenty of customization options. Try adding your favorite ingredients or spices to make this recipe uniquely yours!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)

Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Description

Cheesy Potatoes, often known as Funeral Potatoes, are the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This creamy hash brown casserole is a crowd favorite, making it a staple for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and cozy family dinners. With a delightful combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses layered with crunchy cornflakes on top, each bite is rich and irresistible. Not only is this dish easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste. Whether served as a side for baked chicken or alongside brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, Cheesy Potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 32 oz diced or shredded hash brown potatoes
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 ½ cups sour cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (grated)
  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes
  • ½ medium onion (diced)
  • 23 garlic cloves (minced)
  • Low sodium chicken broth
  • Milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  3. In a large bowl, combine defrosted hash browns with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stir in sour cream and half of the cheese mixture until well combined.
  5. Transfer mixture into the baking dish and top with remaining cheese and crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter.
  6. Bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 660mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or vegetables. Adjust creaminess by varying the amount of sour cream to taste.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating