Ever craved a side dish so comforting it feels like a warm hug? Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are that golden, bubbling answer. A staple at gatherings, potlucks, and—yes—post-funeral receptions, these potatoes are anything but somber. They’re creamy, cheesy, crunchy on top, and impossible to stop scooping. This nostalgic casserole brings everyone back to their grandma’s table, reminding us that food can be both simple and soul-soothing.

Despite the name, this dish is a celebration of flavor. Think tender chunks of potato wrapped in a velvety cream sauce, studded with gooey cheddar and crowned with a buttery cornflake crunch. It’s the kind of comfort food that disappears fast, so be ready to double the batch. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just need a weeknight pick-me-up, this classic bake delivers every time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes smooth and fuss-free, having the right tools makes a world of difference:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine the sauce ingredients without spilling. A medium bowl for the topping helps keep everything tidy.
Casserole Dish (9×13-inch): The standard size for most casseroles, allowing the dish to bake evenly and maintain that ideal crispy top-to-creamy-bottom ratio.
Rubber Spatula: Essential for folding ingredients together gently and scraping down the sides of bowls.
Box Grater (if shredding your own cheese): Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor.
Aluminum Foil: Helps prevent the topping from over-browning while ensuring the insides heat through.

Using the right tools ensures the potatoes bake evenly and your topping comes out perfectly golden—not burnt. Plus, less mess means faster cleanup, and that’s always a win.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Frozen Hash Browns (cubed style): The base of the dish, these provide tender bites without any need for peeling or chopping.
Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness and balances the savory elements.
Cream of Chicken Soup: The key to a velvety, comforting sauce that coats every potato chunk.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty, and absolutely essential for the cheesy flavor.
Butter: Melted and mixed into both the filling and the crunchy topping.
Onion (finely chopped): Adds a subtle sharpness and aromatic layer to the flavor profile.
Garlic Powder: Brings a warm, savory undertone that enhances the dish.
Salt & Pepper: To season and bring out the other flavors.
Cornflakes (crushed): The classic topping that gives the casserole its signature crunch.

How To Make the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the melted butter. Stir until well blended.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Cheese

Fold in the cubed hash brown potatoes, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Transfer to the Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly with a rubber spatula.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery flakes over the top of the potato mixture.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Classic

Serve Cheesy Funeral Potatoes hot, straight from the oven. They pair perfectly with ham, roasted meats, or a fresh green salad. For potlucks or gatherings, keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for smaller portions.

If you want to freeze it, prepare the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the topping crunchy when reheating?

Reheat in the oven uncovered at a moderate temperature (around 325°F) to restore crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want that crunch back.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, just peel and cube your potatoes and parboil them first until tender before using them in the recipe.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for some heat. Avoid super soft cheeses like mozzarella as they can make the dish too gooey.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or celery to make it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add the topping right before baking for best texture.

What if I don’t have cornflakes?

Try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even potato chips for a different take on the topping.

Want More Comforting Casserole Ideas?

If you’re in the mood for more cozy bakes, you’ll love the Sloppy Joe Casserole for a saucy, cheesy weeknight winner.

For a meaty twist, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna layers bold flavor with creamy indulgence.

Want something with veggies? Check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole—a family favorite.

Or keep it nostalgic with Amish Country Casserole, a no-fuss classic.

And don’t miss the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese if you love ultra-cheesy dishes.

For even more casserole comfort, I post daily favorites on my Pinterest LadyPlate board.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your casserole or comfort food boards for later. Just hit that Pin button!

If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you think. Did you swap out the topping? Add bacon? Drop a comment below and share your spin. I always enjoy seeing your delicious versions.