Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute about 6 cups of diced, parboiled potatoes. Be sure to cook them until just tender before mixing with other ingredients, as they won't have as much time to cook through in the casserole as the recipe is written.

Why are they called Funeral Potatoes?

This comforting dish earned its name because it's commonly served at post-funeral luncheons, particularly in Mormon communities. It's easy to make in large quantities and universally appealing during difficult times. But don't let the name fool you – these potatoes are perfect for any gathering!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken. The dish will still be deliciously creamy and satisfying.

My family doesn't like peppers. Can I still make this?

No problem at all. You can use the plain frozen cubed hash browns instead of O'Brien potatoes (which contain peppers). The dish will still turn out wonderfully creamy and delicious.

Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Description

Funeral Potatoes are a comforting, cheesy potato casserole made with frozen hashbrowns, creamy soup, tangy sour cream, and a crunchy potato chip topping. This beloved side dish is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners. Easy to prepare and always a crowd pleaser, it’s the ultimate comfort food recipe.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Potato Casserole

28 ounce package frozen cubed O’Brien potatoes, thawed (with or without peppers)
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
1 tablespoon dried chives
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
2 cups sour cream

Topping

2 cups finely crushed potato chips (measured after crushing)
3 tablespoons salted butter, melted

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Instructions

Thaw the Potatoes
Place the frozen O’Brien potatoes in the refrigerator to thaw overnight, or set them on the counter for about an hour until they are fully thawed.
Preheat and Prepare Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray an 11×7-inch (or 9×13-inch) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so the casserole doesn’t stick.
Mix Potato Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the thawed potatoes, garlic salt, pepper, dried onion flakes, dried chives, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until well mixed.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with nonstick foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Add the Topping
Remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the finely crushed potato chips over the top of the cooked potatoes. Drizzle the melted butter over the chips.
Bake Uncovered
Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes so the topping becomes crispy.
Broil for a Golden Top (Optional)
If you want a more golden topping, place the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely and move the dish around if needed to brown evenly.
Cool and Serve
Allow the funeral potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
You can use regular frozen hashbrowns if O’Brien potatoes are not available.
For extra flavor, add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to the potato mixture.
Try different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a flavor twist.
Keep an eye on the casserole when broiling to avoid burning the topping.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
Calories: 370
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 710mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg