Funeral potatoes are a beloved comfort food dish that has gained widespread popularity beyond their traditional role at post-funeral gatherings. This creamy and cheesy potato casserole is a staple in many homes, particularly in the United States’ Intermountain West region and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) community. As people continue to enjoy this tasty dish, many wonder what to serve alongside funeral potatoes to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Discovering the perfect accompaniments to funeral potatoes involves exploring a range of options, from proteins to vegetables to complementary side dishes. The flexibility of this casserole allows it to pair well with various meal components, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a memorial service meal or a family gathering, selecting suitable dishes to serve with funeral potatoes ensures a delicious and comforting dining experience.
Key Takeaways
Funeral potatoes are a popular comfort food dish often served at post-funeral gatherings and family events.
Pairing the casserole with proteins, vegetables, and complementary sides creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Versatile serving options make funeral potatoes suitable for various occasions and culinary preferences.
What Are Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral potatoes are a popular comfort food dish usually served at gatherings, particularly following funerals or celebrations of life. This dish is made from potatoes, typically in the form of hash browns or diced potatoes, mixed with a creamy sauce, cheese, and various seasonings. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish offers a warm, satisfying, and comforting meal.
The creamy sauce in funeral potatoes usually consists of a mixture of sour cream, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, and melted butter. This combination creates a rich, velvety texture that coats the potatoes and makes the dish a true comfort food. To add even more flavor and indulgence, a generous amount of cheese is mixed into the potato and sauce blend. Commonly used cheeses are cheddar, Colby-jack, or even a blend of different cheeses to create a well-rounded flavor profile.
As you prepare funeral potatoes, you’ll have the opportunity to customize the dish according to your taste preferences. Some people add diced onions, garlic, or other vegetables for extra flavor and texture. The choice of seasonings can also be adjusted based on your personal preferences. Salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs are common additions that enhance the savory element of this dish.
Finally, to provide a contrasting crunchy texture, funeral potatoes often have a topping made of crushed corn flakes, bread crumbs, or even crispy fried onions mixed with melted butter. This is spread over the potato and sauce mixture before baking, creating a delightful crispy layer upon serving.
Ingredients of Funeral Potatoes
Basic Ingredients
To make a classic funeral potatoes recipe, you will need the following basic ingredients:
Diced hash brown potatoes: You can use fresh potatoes that have been peeled and diced, or opt for frozen diced hash brown potatoes for convenience.
Sour cream: This adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.
Cream of chicken soup: You may use canned soup or make it from scratch. The soup helps create a smooth and creamy texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese: This provides a cheesy flavor and helps bind the casserole together. Other types of cheese, such as Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack, can also be used.
Onion and garlic powder: These spices add a subtle flavor to the funeral potatoes, without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the potatoes.
Optional Ingredients
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, many people enjoy adding variations or additional ingredients to enhance the taste and texture of their funeral potatoes. These options can include:
Cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter create a crunchy, delicious topping for the casserole.
Meat: Ham, bacon bits, or diced cooked chicken can be added to the casserole for extra flavor.
Butter: Adding melted butter to the cornflake topping or casserole mix will make them even richer.
Fresh herbs and jalapenos: Chopped fresh parsley, chives, or jalapenos can add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Hash browns: If you prefer, you can use shredded hash browns instead of diced potatoes.
Regardless of the ingredients you choose to include or omit, funeral potatoes will remain a comforting dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Experiment with different combinations to discover your perfect recipe.
Cooking Process of Funeral Potatoes
Preparing the Potatoes
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use either fresh potatoes or frozen hash browns for this dish. If using fresh potatoes, peel and grate them before boiling in a pot of salted water for a few minutes until they’re slightly softened. Drain well and set aside. If using frozen hash browns, simply thaw and drain them before moving on to the next step.
Create the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns or prepared potatoes with ingredients such as condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, grated cheese, and finely chopped onions. Mix everything together until well combined. You can add some salt and pepper for seasoning if desired.
Keep in mind that funeral potatoes are highly versatile; you can customize the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. For instance, you can swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or use a different type of cheese. To make it vegetarian, use a cream-of vegetable-based soup, and experiment with your favorite veggies in the mix.
Baking Process
Transfer the potato mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. For a delicious and crunchy topping, mix together crushed cornflakes with some melted butter and sprinkle it over the potato mixture. If you don’t have cornflakes at hand, you can always use breadcrumbs or even crisped rice cereal.
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Before serving, let it cool down for a few minutes.
Total prep and cook time for funeral potatoes should be around 1 to 1.5 hours. If you need to save time, these potatoes can be prepared ahead, stored in the fridge, and then baked when needed. Extremely easy to prepare, funeral potatoes make a great choice for breakfast, potlucks, or any gathering.
Pro-tip: If you want to speed up the process, you could opt for microwaving your potatoes! Start by placing the mixture directly into a microwave-safe dish. Begin by cooking on high for 8 minutes, then add the topping and microwave for another 7-9 minutes. Don’t forget to let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes are a classic comfort food that often makes its way to family gatherings and special occasions. Finding the perfect side dishes to serve with this delicious potato dish can elevate your meal and create a satisfying combination for everyone at the event. Let’s dive into some meat and vegetable suggestions that will pair well with funeral potatoes.
Meat Suggestions
When it comes to choosing meats to accompany funeral potatoes, consider the following options:
Roasted Rosemary Chicken: The flavorful herbs in this dish complement the creamy potatoes well, providing a perfect balanced meal.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: This savory combination adds richness to your plate, pairing excellently with the creamy texture of the potatoes.
Fried Pork Chops: A popular choice with many family gatherings, fried pork chops bring a touch of Southern warmth to your meal.
Honey Garlic Salmon: For a lighter meat option, the sweet and tangy flavors of honey garlic salmon can add a refreshing touch to the hearty potatoes.
Barbecue Ribs: A staple at many outdoor events, barbecue ribs provide a smoky, tender meat that works well alongside the creamy, cheesy flavors of funeral potatoes.
Flank Steak: A great option for a more filling meal, flank steak’s robust, meaty flavor pairs nicely with the rich and satisfying potatoes.
Vegetable Suggestions
Adding some vegetable side dishes can provide color and freshness to accompany your funeral potatoes. Here are a few to consider:
Garlicky Broccoli: The flavorful garlic notes in this dish blend well with the savory elements of the potatoes.
Sautéed Green Beans: A light, fresh option to contrast with the heavier potatoes, sautéed green beans offer a perfect balance to your meal.
Ham Asparagus Rolls: These rolls combine a tender vegetable with a salty, savory meat to create a unique and delicious pairing for funeral potatoes.
Remember to choose side dishes that reflect the preferences of your guests and complement the occasion. By serving a mix of meat and vegetable options, you can ensure that your funeral potatoes will be part of a delightful and memorable meal.
Popular Variations of Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes, a classic and comforting dish, can be personalized to your taste with many variations. Adjusting a few ingredients or adding an extra flavor element can make your funeral potatoes dish unique and even more delicious.
To start, experiment with different types of potato chip toppings. Swap out the traditional plain potato chips for flavored options such as barbecue or sour cream and onion. These choices can add a delightful twist to your dish, introducing a smoky or tangy element that complements the creamy potatoes.
Another topping option is panko breadcrumbs. Panko provides a light and crisp texture that contrasts well with the creamy consistency of funeral potatoes. To enhance the flavor, you can toast the panko with minced garlic and butter before adding it atop your dish.
For those who enjoy a unique flavor profile, try incorporating chopped green chilies into the potato mixture. The chilies add a subtle heat and depth of flavor that spice lovers will appreciate. If you prefer something milder but still want that smoky flavor, roasted red peppers can be a great addition as well.
If you’re looking for a bit of crunch, swap out the potato chips for crushed tortilla chips. This substitute creates a distinct texture that many people enjoy. You can also play with various flavored tortilla chips to add a hint of your favorite taste to the dish.
Keep in mind that when experimenting with variations of funeral potatoes, it’s essential to refrigerate the dish for an hour or overnight before baking. Allowing the flavors to meld will ensure your funeral potatoes are as satisfying and tasty as possible.
Play around with these variations to find the perfect combination for your taste buds. Remember, the key is creating a dish that is comforting and enjoyable for you and those you share it with.
Storing and Reheating Funeral Potatoes
Storing your funeral potatoes is essential in ensuring they remain a delicious crowd-pleaser. To store your cheesy potato casserole, follow these simple steps.
First, if you have leftover funeral potatoes, allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Then, divide the casserole into individual portions for easier storage and reheating.
For short-term storage, wrap each portion in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator, where your funeral potatoes should last 3 to 4 days.
If you want to store your potatoes for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the individually wrapped portions into a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic freezer bag. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents. Funeral potatoes can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating funeral potatoes is straightforward. For refrigerated portions, you can reheat them in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a slow cooker on a low setting, adding a splash of milk to keep the casserole moist. However, it’s recommended to monitor and stir the contents occasionally to ensure even heating.
For frozen portions, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. After thawing, follow the same reheating steps as for the refrigerated potatoes. By using these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your funeral potatoes anytime, ensuring their deliciousness remains intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular side dishes for funeral potatoes?
Some popular side dishes that pair well with funeral potatoes include green beans, glazed carrots, and dinner rolls. You can also serve them with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts.
Which proteins pair well with funeral potatoes?
Roasted or grilled meats such as chicken, ham, or turkey make great pairings with funeral potatoes. You can also consider serving them with fish, like baked or grilled salmon, or even a simple, flavorful meatloaf.
Can you suggest some vegetarian options to serve with funeral potatoes?
Yes, there are several tasty vegetarian options that can be served with funeral potatoes. Stuffed bell peppers, vegetable casseroles, and grilled portobello mushrooms are delicious choices. You can also serve a hearty bean or lentil dish for added protein.
What are some traditional accompaniments for funeral potatoes?
Traditional accompaniments for funeral potatoes include dishes like jellied salads, fruit trays, and deviled eggs. Coleslaw and a potato salad are popular options as well.
Are there any salads that complement funeral potatoes?
Refreshing, colorful salads with a variety of vegetables and a vinaigrette or light dressing create a nice balance with the rich, creamy funeral potatoes. Consider a simple mixed greens, spinach, or arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy dressing.
What beverages go well with funeral potatoes?
Beverages that complement funeral potatoes include iced tea, lemonade, and flavored water. For a more elegant touch, you can serve white or sparkling wine.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Crush the corn flakes and sprinkle them over the top of the mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are cooked through.
Let the funeral potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 315kcal
Keyword funeral potatoes, side dish for funeral potatoes
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
