What are ‘Funeral Potatoes’ and How to Make Them?

by:
November 25, 2023

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source: recipes.net

Have you ever heard of “funeral potatoes”? Despite the somewhat somber name, these delectable spuds are anything but mournful. They’re a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delightful dish that has found its way into potlucks, family gatherings, and yes, even funerals.

The Origin Story:

The origins of funeral potatoes trace back to the heart of American home cooking, primarily in the Intermountain West region. While the exact inception remains a bit of a culinary mystery, the dish gained prominence in the Mormon community and quickly spread beyond.

So, why the name “funeral potatoes”? It’s a question that has sparked curiosity and humor. The moniker likely stems from the dish’s ubiquity at post-funeral gatherings or memorial services. Funeral potatoes became a symbol of communal support, a warm and comforting offering for those in mourning.

What Exactly Are Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral potatoes are a hearty, casserole-style dish featuring a base of diced potatoes, often hash browns or cubed potatoes, mixed with creamy ingredients like sour cream, condensed soup (usually cream of chicken or mushroom), cheese, and topped with a crispy layer of crunchy goodness—commonly cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with butter.

The beauty of funeral potatoes lies in their versatility. Some recipes include additional ingredients like onions, garlic, chives, or even diced ham or bacon to elevate the flavor profile.

Making Funeral Potatoes:

Now, let’s delve into the easy steps of preparing this soul-warming dish:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of frozen hash browns or diced potatoes
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can condensed cream of chicken or mushroom soup
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
  • Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the hash browns or diced potatoes, sour cream, condensed soup, shredded cheese, melted butter, and seasonings.
  • Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the potato mixture.
  • Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

One of the reasons funeral potatoes have endured and gained popularity beyond funeral gatherings is their simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. They’re a staple at potlucks, family reunions, and holiday dinners. Their creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to almost everyone, making them a beloved comfort food.

While the name might evoke curiosity, funeral potatoes bring comfort, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. These creamy, cheesy spuds have transcended their original setting to become a cherished dish in many homes. So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare, heartwarming, and downright delicious, consider whipping up a batch of funeral potatoes—no funeral attendance required!

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