Funeral Potatoes That Everyone Loves: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Funeral potatoes are more than just a comforting dish—they’re a heartfelt part of tradition, flavor, and togetherness. In this guide, we dive deep into the origin, preparation, variations, and appeal of this timeless recipe. From classic funeral potatoes Pioneer Woman style to creative twists like funeral potatoes with potato chips, this article serves up everything you need to know.

This recipe lives at the center of our CookingFlash story. Our About page began with a mission to share meals that connect generations—and funeral potatoes are exactly that. It was one of the first dishes we posted because it came straight from Grandma Helen’s handwritten recipe book. It stood as a symbol of warmth at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and—yes—funerals, where it brought comfort in hard times. Today, it continues to do the same for thousands of readers just like you.

Whether you’re looking for the best funeral potatoes recipe easy, or trying to find out what to substitute for corn flakes, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get cheesy.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cheesy mashed potato puffs to serve with your funeral potatoes.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Are Funeral Potatoes?

Where Did Recipe Come From?

The term “funeral potatoes” comes from a tradition popular across the Midwest and Utah. Families often serve this cheesy potato casserole after funerals to comfort grieving loved ones. It’s filling, familiar, and easy to prepare in large batches. Though associated with loss, it’s a dish filled with love.

Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?

The name sounds somber, but there’s a warm reason behind it. After services, communities gather to share a meal. These potatoes were often made ahead and baked fresh at church or community halls—hence the nickname. Over time, funeral potatoes Allrecipes and family cookbooks helped keep the name alive.

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Classic Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 30 ounces frozen hash browns (diced or shredded, thawed)
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 10 tablespoons butter (divided), melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups corn flakes cereal (crushed)

This lineup is simple but impactful. Some even say it’s the Amish funeral potatoes recipe of dreams!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Thaw your hash browns overnight or warm at 200°F for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F.
3. In a bowl, combine sour cream, soup, 6 tbsp melted butter, salt, pepper, and onion.
4. Stir in potatoes and cheese, then spread into a 9×13” baking dish.
5. Crush corn flakes in a ziplock, mix with remaining 4 tbsp butter, and spread on top.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes.

Serve hot and bubbling with baked ham, roasted turkey, or flank steak.

Don’t miss our Neiman Marcus chicken casserole for another creamy crowd-pleaser.

Creative Twists on Traditional Funeral Potatoes

Corn Flakes or Chips? Choosing the Right Crunch

The golden topping on funeral potatoes is a signature part of their charm. Traditionally, lightly buttered corn flakes are used to give each bite a crispy finish. But if you’re low on pantry staples, there are some exciting and tasty substitutions.

So what’s the best backup? Try using crushed potato chips instead! Whether it’s classic, ridged, or even kettle-style chips, they provide a salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy interior. This method has gained traction in modern recipes and might even win you more compliments than the original.

Still wondering what to use instead of corn flakes for funeral potatoes? Here’s a quick guide:

Topping Alternative	Crunch Factor	Flavor Notes	Ideal For
Corn Flakes	Light & crisp	Slightly sweet	Traditional lovers
Potato Chips	Bold & crunchy	Salty kick	Modern spin-offs
Ritz Crackers	Buttery soft	Savory mellow	Rich comfort food fans
Breadcrumbs (Panko)	Light & dry	Mild flavor	Lighter casserole fans

No matter which you choose, these toppings give funeral potatoes the final layer of texture they deserve.

Learn more about great potato-based dishes like our cheesy mashed potato puffs—perfect for feeding a crowd.

Can You Use Fresh Potatoes for Funeral Potatoes?

Absolutely, yes. If you’ve run out of frozen hash browns, this recipe can still be made using fresh potatoes from scratch. All you need to do is peel and grate 4 to 5 medium russets. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly and squeeze out the extra moisture before use.

A helpful tip: boil the grated potatoes for about five minutes, then drain. This partial cooking makes the baking process smoother and ensures they meld perfectly with the creamy filling.

Even top recipes, like the funeral potatoes Pioneer Woman version, feature fresh potatoes for a rustic, made-from-scratch feel. And if you’re following this recipe easy path, frozen hash browns are great—but fresh potatoes do take the texture to the next level.

Don’t miss our chicken rice a roni casserole, which pairs beautifully with these rich and creamy potatoes.

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Mastering the Art of Homemade recipe

Getting Started: Gather Your Ingredients

If you’ve ever wondered how to make this recipe from scratch and get that comforting, cheesy, golden-brown perfection—this is your go-to guide. You won’t need any fancy equipment or complicated prep. In fact, that’s part of the charm of this recipe: they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly delicious.

Here’s what you need to grab before you begin:

Main Ingredients List:

• 30 oz bag of frozen hash browns (diced or shredded, thawed completely)
• 2 cups of full-fat sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 10 tablespoons butter (melted, divided into two parts)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups crushed corn flakes cereal for topping

Helpful Kitchen Tools:

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Zip-top bag (for crushing topping)
• Oven preheated to 350°F

This ingredient combo forms the foundation of many well-known dishes, including the funeral potatoes Pioneer Woman shared in her popular potluck segment.

Don’t miss our twist on easy comfort casseroles—chicken rice a roni casserole is the perfect sidekick.

Step-by-Step Method: From Frozen to Fantastic

Step 1 – Prep your potatoes:
If your hash browns are frozen, spread them on a tray and thaw them in a low oven at 200°F for 20 minutes, or let them defrost overnight in the fridge. This helps avoid watery potatoes and uneven cooking.

Step 2 – Build your base:
In a large bowl, stir together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, minced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 3 – Add your potatoes and cheese:
Gently fold the thawed hash browns into the creamy base. Add shredded cheddar and stir carefully to avoid breaking the potatoes into mush.

Step 4 – Topping time:
Place corn flakes in a ziplock bag and gently crush them by hand or with a rolling pin. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the bag and toss until evenly coated.

Step 5 – Assemble and bake:
Spoon the cheesy potato mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it into a single layer. Top with your buttery corn flakes. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Funeral potatoes should come out of the oven hot, crisp on top, and creamy inside—exactly like your grandma used to make.

Discover great side dishes like our creamed cabbage ground beef casserole to serve alongside funeral potatoes.

Best Ways to Serve recipe

This dish is more than just a side—it’s often the star of the table. Whether you’re serving at a holiday gathering, a Sunday potluck, or a comforting meal after a hard day, these potatoes fit right in.

Try pairing with:

• Honey-glazed ham
• Slow-roasted turkey
• Herbed pork loin
• Grilled flank steak
• Or even a fried egg for a rich breakfast twist

And yes—funeral potatoes Allrecipes versions sometimes swap in Greek yogurt or different cheeses, but the classic cheddar and sour cream combo remains unbeatable.

Regional Styles & Funeral Potatoes Across America

The Midwest: The Original Home of recipe

If you ask anyone from Utah, Idaho, or Nebraska what defines comfort food, chances are recipe will be high on their list. In fact, the dish is so iconic in these areas that it often appears at weddings, baby showers, and Sunday brunch—not just funerals.

Utah, in particular, is where recipe earned their name. Latter-day Saint (LDS) communities frequently served large pans of this cheesy casserole at funeral luncheons, hence the name. Recipes passed down from grandmothers to grandchildren often call for simple ingredients like frozen hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and—you guessed it—corn flakes on top.

Some families even include a second layer of cheese beneath the topping for extra gooeyness. While these additions vary, the soul of the dish remains the same: warmth and togetherness.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cheesy garlic butter rollups for another delicious pairing.

Southern Spin: Bold, Creamy, and a Bit Spicy

Down South, the casserole gets a little bolder. Variations of recipe in southern kitchens often include green chilies, chopped jalapeños, or even Cajun seasoning to give it a flavorful kick. A few recipes blend in pepper jack cheese or Monterey Jack alongside the traditional cheddar for a spicier bite.

It’s common to find recipe with potato chips rather than corn flakes here. The salty crunch of thick-cut chips balances well with the rich, creamy interior.

Southerners also tend to serve funeral potatoes alongside BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or fried chicken—hearty mains that stand up to such a bold side.

Northern Versions: Simple and Creamy

In the Northern states—think Wisconsin or Minnesota—this recipe stay closer to the original form but often include creamier elements like cottage cheese or even a splash of milk for texture.

Some cooks swap out cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery, adjusting the base to fit what’s in the pantry. Others use crushed buttery crackers or even panko instead of corn flakes. These tiny tweaks reflect regional preferences while preserving the essence of this beloved dish.

Don’t miss our Neiman Marcus chicken casserole—it’s a creamy crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any potato side.

Why Funeral Potatoes Are So Adaptable

Whether you’re following the Amish recipe or experimenting with spicy toppings, the core appeal of this dish lies in its flexibility. It’s easy to modify, forgiving with measurements, and always comforting.

That’s what makes it timeless. No matter where you are in the country—or what you have in your pantry—you can whip up funeral potatoes that hit the spot.

Make-Ahead, Freeze, and Store recipe Like a Pro

Can You Make recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. One of the best things about recipe —aside from how creamy and comforting they are—is that they’re incredibly easy to make ahead. Whether you’re planning for a big holiday meal, a family gathering, or prepping for a meal train, this dish adapts beautifully to your schedule.

Here’s how to make recipe ahead without sacrificing flavor or texture:

Make-Ahead Instructions:

1. Prepare the full recipe through step 4 (before baking).
2. Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
3. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
4. When ready to serve, uncover and bake as directed—add 5–10 extra minutes if straight from the fridge.

Avoid adding the corn flakes topping until just before baking so it stays crisp and golden, not soggy. That final layer should always be fresh.

Check out our creamed cabbage ground beef casserole—another fantastic make-ahead comfort food option.

How to Freeze Funeral Potatoes Without Losing Quality

Yes, funeral potatoes freeze beautifully. This is a major win if you’re a fan of batch cooking or just love having a backup meal in the freezer for those hectic weeks. To freeze it correctly, just follow these steps:

Freezing Method (Unbaked):

1. Assemble the dish as usual but skip the topping.
2. Wrap tightly in two layers—plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Label and date it.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Add the crushed corn flakes topping, then bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Freezing Method (Fully Baked):

• Bake the full dish and let it cool completely.
• Portion into airtight containers for single-serve meals or freeze whole.
• Reheat from thawed at 325°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil.

This approach is perfect if you’re prepping meals for new parents, sick friends, or family in mourning—true to the dish’s origins.

Don’t miss our bitchin’ biscuits and gravy—they freeze well and reheat like a dream too.

Best Practices for Leftovers and Refrigeration

Once baked, recpie should be stored in the fridge within two hours. Use an airtight container, or just cover the baking dish well with foil. They’ll last for up to 4 days and reheat perfectly in the oven or microwave.

How to reheat leftovers:

• Microwave: Warm individual servings in 30-second bursts.
• Oven: Reheat covered at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Add a bit of shredded cheese or extra topping before reheating for a flavor boost.

These potatoes reheat without drying out, which makes them a go-to for next-day meals. Many funeral potatoes Allrecipes users mention that the leftovers taste even better than day one!

Funeral Potatoes Toppings & Custom Flavor Upgrades

Creative Toppings: Beyond Corn Flakes

The classic recipe topping—lightly crushed corn flakes mixed with melted butter—is beloved for its golden crunch. But that’s just the beginning. Depending on what you have in the pantry (or your flavor mood), you can take this casserole to new heights with these satisfying topping swaps:

Popular Topping Alternatives for Funeral Potatoes

Topping Option	Texture	Taste Profile	Best With
Corn Flakes	Light & crispy	Slightly sweet crunch	Classic & traditional
Crushed Potato Chips	Bold & crunchy	Salty, savory depth	Spicy or Southern styles
Ritz Crackers	Buttery crisp	Rich, slightly sweet	Mild creamy versions
Panko Bread Crumbs	Light & airy	Neutral crunch	Cheese-heavy versions
French Fried Onions	Crunchy & tangy	Oniony, sharp bite	Mushroom or turkey pairings

Wondering what you can use instead of corn flakes for funeral potatoes? Any of the above work like magic—and offer new layers of flavor.

In fact, recipe with potato chips have become especially popular in the South. The salty bite adds punch to the creamy texture underneath. Some home cooks even combine two toppings—like potato chips and cheddar—to make it extra decadent.

Learn more about topping magic with our texas trash dip recipes—the crunch-factor is a game-changer!

Flavor Add-Ins That Change the Game

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, it’s time to play with bold, personalized upgrades. Whether you’re inspired by the funeral potatoes Pioneer Woman approach or just want to clear out your fridge, the options are wide open.

Here are some delicious mix-ins that take traditional funeral potatoes to a new level:

Savory Add-Ins:

• Cooked crumbled bacon or pancetta
• Diced green chiles or jalapeños
• Caramelized onions
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Finely chopped garlic
• Cubed ham or shredded rotisserie chicken

Cheese Upgrades:

• Pepper Jack for a kick
• Mozzarella for stretch
• Gruyère for richness
• Parmesan for depth
• Extra cheddar for that gooey pull

Creamy Enhancements:

• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt
• Add a splash of heavy cream or milk
• Use homemade cream of chicken or mushroom soup

These additions don’t just tweak the flavor—they personalize your dish to match the occasion, dietary needs, or your signature cooking style.

Looking for more mix-in ideas? Try our cheesy garlic butter rollups—they make an excellent meal booster alongside funeral potatoes.

Kids & Family-Friendly Customizations

To make recipe even more loved by the entire table (especially picky eaters), try these family-tested favorites:

• Top with extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking
• Mix in mild chopped ham for extra protein
• Go easy on onion for sensitive palates
• Swap spicy toppings with crushed crackers or goldfish crumbs

Whether you go traditional or totally creative, funeral potatoes are your blank canvas for flavor. And as the funeral potatoes Allrecipes community proves—everyone has a “secret ingredient.”

What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes – Full Meal Planning

Building the Perfect Plate Around Funeral Potatoes

While recipe are often viewed as a side dish, they have a rich, creamy flavor and heartiness that makes them the star of any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family reunion, bringing a dish to a potluck, or planning a cozy Sunday dinner, knowing what pairs well with this cheesy casserole turns good meals into great ones.

From meats to vegetables and even breads, here are your best pairing options:

Best Proteins to Serve with Funeral Potatoes
The savory, rich nature of funeral potatoes needs a main that balances its creamy base. Here are tried-and-true protein matches:

Protein	Why It Works
Glazed Ham	Sweet and salty contrast to cheesy richness
Roasted Turkey Breast	Light, tender protein balances dense casserole
Grilled Flank Steak	Juicy and flavorful against a creamy backdrop
Oven-Fried Chicken	Crunchy exterior enhances the soft potato layers
Herb-Rubbed Pork Loin	Adds a rustic flavor to the table

Looking for inspiration? Try our chicken rice a roni casserole, which also works beautifully with cheesy potatoes.

Vegetable Sides That Complement recipe

With the boldness of funeral potatoes, adding freshness to the plate helps balance things out. Choose sides that are crisp, acidic, or lightly seasoned to avoid flavor overload.

• Steamed green beans with lemon zest
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic drizzle
• Simple garden salad with vinaigrette
• Honey-glazed carrots
• Sauteed spinach with garlic

These veggies contrast beautifully with the dish’s richness and add brightness to the overall flavor profile.

Don’t miss our creamy garlic crab stuffed mushrooms—they’re a fancy match for holiday tables.

Bread & Rolls to Complete the Meal

What’s a cheesy casserole without something to sop up all that flavor? Here are great bread pairings for funeral potatoes:

• Soft dinner rolls (classic)
• Buttery croissants (decadent)
• Rustic sourdough slices (adds chewiness)
• Cheddar biscuits (amplifies cheesy flavor)

Tip: Warm your bread before serving so it holds up to the creamy texture of the potatoes.

Complete Meal Ideas Featuring

Need full menu inspiration? Here are 3 complete meal plans where recipe shine:

Holiday Dinner Spread

• Main: Glazed spiral ham
• Side 1: Funeral potatoes with corn flakes
• Side 2: Green beans almondine
• Dessert: Apple crisp or pecan pie

Sunday Family Feast

• Main: Herb-roasted chicken
• Side 1: Funeral potatoes with potato chips
• Side 2: Garden salad with ranch
• Bread: Homemade rolls
• Drink: Iced tea or lemonade

Weeknight Comfort Dinner

• Main: Smoked sausage links
• Side 1: Simple funeral potatoes (no topping)
• Side 2: Roasted carrots
• Dessert: Banana pudding

Even when inspired by funeral potatoes Allrecipes or the Pioneer Woman version, these combinations hold up as guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

Discover great pairings like our orange creamsicle poke cake for dessert after your funeral potatoes meal.

Final Thoughts: Why We Keep Coming Back to Funeral Potatoes

There’s a reason recipe continue to show up in kitchens across America. They’re warm, creamy, and built for connection—exactly the kind of dish that invites people to gather, eat, and feel at home.

From regional favorites like Amish recipe to modern takes with spicy add-ins and chip toppings, there’s no one way to make this dish right. What matters is how it makes you feel—nourished, comforted, and part of something familiar.

Looking for another cozy classic? Check out our cheesy mashed potato puffs—they’re bite-sized but full of love. Tray this:The Best Roasted Vegetables In The Oven (Crispy & Actually Delicious)

Watch How to Make funeral potatoes