Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the delightful richness of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. This beloved casserole is a staple at gatherings and family dinners, known for its creamy texture and golden, crispy topping. Imagine a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone together around the table, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma. Perfect as a side for potlucks or holiday feasts, these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed corn flakes (for topping)
- Extra 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and warm for baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are beautifully mixed together.
- Transfer the creamy potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is delicious.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter until they are well-coated and ready to add a delightful crunch.
- Sprinkle the corn flake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish, creating a lovely, crispy layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbly and inviting.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before diving in.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or cooked crumbled bacon into the potato mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can bring an exciting zing to this comforting dish. Don’t forget: allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes it easier to serve and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the ease of baking with frozen hash browns, which make preparation quick and convenient. The combination of creamy soup and sour cream infuses the potatoes with a rich, velvety texture that is simply irresistible. The baking process allows the flavors to meld while creating a crunchy topping that contrasts delightfully with the soft potatoes underneath.
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just add the cornflake topping right before baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake it from frozen at 350°F for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are more than just a dish; they’re a warm embrace in casserole form. This comforting recipe is sure to bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts as you gather around the table with loved ones. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dinner, this dish is a timeless classic that will keep everyone coming back for more. Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!