This Funeral Potatoes recipe delivers a cloud-soft potato center wrapped in a nutty cornflake crust, all bathed in a lush cheddar and cream sauce that smells like pure comfort as it bakes.
You will want to make it for game day, holiday meals, or any Tuesday night when you need a satisfying crowd pleaser that feels special without being fussy.
SaveI remember my first bite at a family reunion, the crunchy top giving way to silky potato, and I knew this would be a recipe I return to again and again.
Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set it nearby.
- Cook the aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, add the chopped onion, and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Layer the potatoes
Spread half of the sliced potatoes across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle with half of the cooked onion mixture.
- Make the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, turmeric, onion powder, and paprika until smooth.
- Add sauce and cheese
Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes in the dish, then sprinkle with a cup of the shredded cheddar.
- Repeat layers
Add the remaining potatoes, the rest of the onion mixture, the remaining sauce, and another cup of cheddar.
- Prepare the topping
In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with melted butter or olive oil until evenly coated.
- Assemble and bake
Spread the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest before serving
Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes so it sets slightly and makes serving cleaner slices.
- Serve and enjoy
Garnish with a pinch of fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm from the oven.
Substitutions and variations
- Use low fat milk or a milk alternative instead of evaporated milk if you prefer a lighter version.
- Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Replace cornflakes with buttered Ritz crackers or plain potato chips for a different crunch.
- Add cooked ham or bacon for extra savory depth.
- Use gluten free cornflakes for a gluten free adaptation.
Chloe's tips
- Slice the potatoes thin for a more tender bite, or leave them a little thicker for a heartier texture.
- Letting the casserole rest helps it slice neatly and keeps the layers intact on the plate.
- Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright note that cuts through the richness.
- If you like extra crunch, reserve a quarter cup of cornflakes to sprinkle on top just before the final bake.
- This dish reheats well in the microwave; cover loosely to keep the top from drying out.
How to store it
- Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes until hot throughout.
Serving suggestions
Serve this Funeral Potatoes casserole as a warm, crowd pleasing side that brings everyone to the table.
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a complete meal.
- Add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Serve with dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of cheesy sauce.
- For a holiday table, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of melted butter for a polished finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, assemble the casserole through step 6, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5 to 10 minutes to the covered baking time if coming straight from the fridge.
Why are my potatoes still a little firm when I test them?
Potato thickness and oven temperature vary. If they are firm, cover the dish and bake for an extra 5 to 10 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I freeze leftover casserole?
Freezing is best done before baking. Assemble in a freezer safe dish, cover, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add the cornflake topping and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?
Try crushed Ritz crackers, buttery potato chips, or a mix of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan for a similar crunch.
Let's get cooking!
I hope you enjoy making this Funeral Potatoes recipe as much as your family enjoys digging in; it is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into a cozy celebration.
