Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are the ultimate comfort food! This easy hash brown casserole combines cheesy potatoes, savory onion, garlic, and creamy sour cream, all topped with a crunchy cornflake layer. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses provides a deliciously creamy and savory taste.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair these Cheesy Potatoes with roast chicken, turkey, or any protein of your choice!
- Crowd-Pleasing: With its cheesy goodness and crunchy topping, it’s a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for convenience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A large spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for even cooking and easy serving of your cheesy potatoes.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavors every time.
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Mixture
- 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)
For the Topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ medium onion (diced)
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup 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)
How to Make Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Combine shredded cheeses in a small bowl and toss to combine. Set aside.
- Place defrosted potatoes in a very large bowl.
- Toss with 4 tablespoons of melted butter along with salt and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Mix in Sour Cream
Stir in the sour cream along with 2 cups of the combined cheese mixture. Set this aside until you are ready to assemble.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful side dish that everyone will enjoy! Keep an eye out for further instructions on baking and serving this delectable Cheesy Potato casserole.
How to Serve Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement many meals. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor make them a crowd favorite, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
As a Comforting Side
- Pair with roasted chicken for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside grilled steak for a delightful contrast.
At Family Gatherings
- Accompany with green salads to balance the richness.
- Add to your holiday spread for a festive touch.
For Casual Dinners
- Enjoy with burgers or hot dogs for a laid-back meal.
- Serve at potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
How to Perfect Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
To ensure your Cheesy Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and cheese yield better flavors and textures than processed options.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference before baking.
- Layer cheese: For extra cheesiness, layer cheese throughout the potato mixture instead of just on top.
- Check doneness: Ensure the casserole is bubbly and golden brown before removing it from the oven for the best texture.
- Add variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for unique flavors.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes pair well with various sides that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious green side that adds color and crunch.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.
- Grilled Asparagus: Adds a charred flavor that contrasts nicely with cheesy textures.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad that balances richness with its tangy dressing.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots offer a delightful contrast to savory potatoes.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side brings brightness and freshness to the plate.
- Baked Beans: A hearty choice that pairs well with the creamy casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds another layer of comfort food appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are a delightful side dish, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for when making this recipe.
- Using Frozen Potatoes Without Thawing: Always defrost frozen hash brown potatoes first. This prevents excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.
- Overmixing the Ingredients: Gently combine the ingredients to maintain the texture of the potatoes. Overmixing can lead to a mushy casserole.
- Skipping the Cheese Blend: Don’t just stick with one type of cheese; using a blend enhances flavor. Make sure to mix different cheeses for a richer taste.
- Not Greasing the Baking Dish: Forgetting to grease your baking dish can make cleanup difficult. Lightly butter or spray it before adding the potato mixture.
- Ignoring Bake Time: Ensure you follow the bake time closely. Undercooking may result in cold centers, while overcooking could dry out your cheesy potatoes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheesy Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- For best results, allow them to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- It’s best to freeze before baking for optimal texture when reheating.
Reheating Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes).
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with various cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for unique flavors in your Cheesy Potatoes.
How do I make Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?
Prepare everything up to the baking point, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.
Can I add vegetables to my Cheesy Potatoes?
Absolutely! Consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)?
These potatoes pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as part of a brunch spread.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes) are not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough to complement many meals. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings. This comforting dish is sure to delight at any gathering!
Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Cheesy Potatoes, also known as Funeral Potatoes, are the ultimate comfort food that delivers a creamy, cheesy experience in every bite. This easy hash brown casserole features a delightful blend of cheesy goodness, savory onions and garlic, all topped with a crunchy cornflake crust. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Perfectly versatile, you can pair it with your favorite proteins like roast chicken or turkey, making it an essential addition to any meal.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately eight people 1x
Ingredients
- 32 ounces diced or shredded hash brown potatoes
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ medium onion (diced)
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded cheeses and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix defrosted potatoes with melted butter, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Stir in sour cream and two cups of the cheese mixture.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in butter until soft; then add flour and whisk for one minute before gradually adding chicken broth and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour this mixture over the potato mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheese and crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, prepare everything up to baking and refrigerate overnight.