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This Funeral Potatoes recipe features a creamy, cheesy casserole made with hash browns, sour cream, and a flavorful blend of seasonings. Topped with crunchy potato chips and melted butter, this dish is a perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, this dish is a crowd favorite that everyone will love. The recipe is simple to make and can easily be customized with additions like bacon, ham, or vegetarian substitutions. Make this easy and delicious casserole ahead of time and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Casserole:

32 oz. bag shredded hash browns, thawed and patted dry
1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
10.75 oz. cream of chicken soup
16 oz. sour cream (equal to 2 cups)
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 dash hot sauce (optional)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (use a mix of mild and sharp cheddar; reserve ½ cup for topping)

Topping:

2 cups ridged potato chips, slightly crushed
1 tablespoon butter, melted
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

Chives, diced (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Soften Onions and Garlic:
- In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Prepare Casserole Base:
- Add the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter to the saucepan and stir until melted. Remove the pan from heat.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce (if using). Mix until smooth.
- Set aside ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Add the remaining cheese to the saucepan mixture and stir until combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Use a silicone spatula to fold the shredded hash browns into the sauce mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed potato chips, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Spread the topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with diced chives, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food Classic: Perfectly creamy and cheesy with a crunchy topping that’s hard to resist.
Simple to Make: Uses everyday ingredients and requires minimal prep.
Versatile: Great as a side dish for family meals, potlucks, or special gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: A beloved dish that everyone will ask for again and again.

Tips

Dry Hash Browns: Make sure the hash browns are thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
Cheese Options: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Topping Crunch: Crush potato chips lightly; avoid turning them into crumbs for the best texture.
Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick, or skip it for a milder flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Additions: Stir in cooked bacon bits or diced ham for added protein.
Vegetarian Option: Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
Alternative Toppings: Swap potato chips for crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter, sour cream, and cheese alternatives.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed.

What’s the best way to crush the chips?
Place the chips in a resealable plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or your hands.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted chicken, turkey, or beef for a complete meal.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a comforting side dish for weeknight dinners.