Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole Recipe Easy and Perfect for Holidays

Let me tell you, the moment that golden, crispy crust of cheesy goodness emerges from the oven—oozing melted cheese and that irresistible scent of buttery potatoes—is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole, I was instantly hooked. You know that kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you realize you’ve stumbled onto something truly special? That was exactly it.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to bring a similar dish to family gatherings. It was pure, nostalgic comfort, the kind of recipe that felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. I tried recreating it on a rainy weekend, and honestly, I wish I’d discovered this particular Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole recipe years ago. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them).

Let’s face it, this casserole is dangerously easy to make and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just brightening up your weeknight dinner. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for your kids or a side dish that’ll make your Pinterest cookie board jealous, this recipe is your go-to. After testing it multiple times (in the name of research, of course), it became a staple for family gatherings and gifting. Honestly, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole Recipe

This recipe isn’t just your average cheesy potato casserole — it’s a tried-and-true favorite that delivers every time. From my kitchen to yours, here’s why it stands out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday sides.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery store runs required; you probably have everything in your pantry already.
• Perfect for Holidays & Potlucks: A crowd-pleaser that fits right in at family dinners or festive gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the crispy, cheesy texture and comforting flavors.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The crispy topping combined with the creamy, cheesy interior is next-level comfort food.

What makes this recipe different? I blend sharp cheddar cheese with a touch of cream cheese to create an ultra-smooth, rich filling. Plus, the secret crispy topping of crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter adds that perfect crunch. This isn’t just another version—it’s the best version that balances cheesy, creamy, and crispy perfectly.

You know what? This casserole isn’t just good—it’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. It’s comfort food reimagined: familiar, cozy, but with a little extra love in every forkful. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is a winner every time.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, and you can find easy substitutions if needed.

• For the Potato Base:
  • Hash brown potatoes, frozen (about 1 lb / 450 g) – thawed
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups / 200 g) – I recommend Cabot for best melt
  • Cream cheese, softened (4 oz / 115 g) – adds richness and creaminess
  • Onion powder (1 tsp) – for subtle depth
  • Garlic powder (½ tsp) – optional but recommended
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Creamy Sauce:
  • Condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can – 10.5 oz / 300 g) – classic base, or use cream of mushroom for vegetarian option
  • Milk (½ cup / 120 ml) – whole milk gives best creaminess
  • Butter, melted (4 tbsp / 60 g) – divided use, part for sauce, part for topping
• For the Crispy Topping:
  • Cornflakes cereal, crushed (2 cups / 60 g) – gives that iconic crunch
  • Additional melted butter (2 tbsp / 30 g) – to coat flakes for crispiness
  • Optional: Paprika or smoked paprika (¼ tsp) – adds smoky color and flavor

Ingredient Tips: Look for small-curd cottage cheese if you want to swap cream cheese for a lighter texture. In summer, fresh garden herbs like thyme or parsley can add a lovely fresh touch to the potato mixture.

Substitutions: Use almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free, and gluten-free cream soup alternatives are easy to find if you want to keep this gluten-free.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish – the perfect size for this casserole
• Mixing bowls – a medium and a large one are handy
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements make a difference here
• Electric mixer or sturdy whisk – for blending cream cheese and sauce smoothly
• Spatula or large spoon – for folding ingredients gently
• Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole during baking for even cooking
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes

If you don’t have a mixer, no worries—just take a little extra time with a whisk or fork to get that creamy texture. For budget-friendly options, glass or ceramic baking dishes work just as well as fancy stoneware. I personally love using a ceramic dish because it holds heat nicely and browns the topping beautifully.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the potato base: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns (about 1 lb/450 g), 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 4 oz (115 g) softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy. This step is key to getting that luscious, cheesy texture.
3. Mix the seasoning and sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup (120 ml) milk, 4 tbsp (60 g) melted butter, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Pour this over the potato mixture and fold gently but thoroughly. You want every bite to be seasoned perfectly.
4. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Give it a little tap on the counter to settle the mix nicely.
5. Prepare the crispy topping: In a small bowl, toss 2 cups (60 g) crushed cornflakes with 2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter and a pinch of paprika if using. This coating is what makes the topping extra crunchy and flavorful.
6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the potato mixture. Don’t skimp here; the topping is half the fun!
7. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. This helps cook the casserole through without drying it out.
8. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges bubble and the topping turns a deep, buttery gold.
9. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This pause helps the casserole set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Pro tip: If you notice any sogginess under the topping, don’t fret—resting the casserole after baking helps absorb excess moisture. Also, stirring gently when mixing ensures the potatoes stay fluffy rather than mushy.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One trick I’ve learned over the years is to thaw those hash browns completely and press out any excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel. This keeps the casserole from becoming watery.

Using a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese creates a silky texture and rich flavor. I once tried just cheddar, and while tasty, it wasn’t quite as creamy. The cream cheese really smooths things out.

When mixing the topping, be sure the cornflakes are evenly coated with melted butter—that’s what gives you that golden crunch instead of a burnt or soggy layer.

Watch your oven closely during the last 15 minutes of baking. Every oven behaves a little differently, and a minute or two can make the difference between perfect crispiness and burning.

For multitasking, start prepping the topping while the oven preheats, and use the baking time to tidy up or prepare other dishes. This recipe is forgiving, but don’t rush the resting time—it really helps with slicing and serving.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce to keep it meat-free.
• Low-Carb Variation: Use riced cauliflower instead of hash browns for a lighter, low-carb twist. The baking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for a gentle heat that complements the cheesy richness.
• Herb Infused: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, seasonal upgrade—especially lovely in winter months.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a suitable cream soup alternative, plus a plant-based milk substitute.

I personally tried adding crispy cooked bacon bits once and it was a total game-changer—smoky, salty, and indulgent. Feel free to experiment! Just remember to keep the balance so the potatoes and cheese still shine.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven, when the cheese is gooey and the topping crackles delightfully. For presentation, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.

It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, glazed ham, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For holiday mornings, it’s also fantastic alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes to bring back the crispy topping and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crunch intact.

Freezing works well too—freeze in an airtight container before baking or after fully cooled. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Flavors actually deepen a bit after resting, so leftovers can taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each hearty serving (about 1 cup/250 g) is roughly 350-400 calories, with around 20 grams of fat and 25 grams of carbohydrates. It provides a good dose of protein from the cheese and cream cheese, making it satisfying and filling.

Potatoes bring complex carbs and potassium, while the cheeses offer calcium and vitamin D. Using cream cheese adds richness but also some saturated fat, so moderation is key if you’re watching intake.

For gluten-free diets, this recipe is naturally suitable if you use gluten-free cornflakes and soup. It’s not low-calorie but is a comforting dish that feels like a treat, perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Personally, I appreciate that with simple ingredients and no processed junk, it’s a wholesome comfort food that brings the family together around the table.

Conclusion

If you’re on the lookout for a recipe that’s cheesy, crispy, and downright comforting, this Crispy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is worth every minute. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and always impresses both family and guests.

Feel free to tweak it to your taste—whether that means adding a little spice, swapping out ingredients for dietary needs, or mixing in your favorite herbs. This casserole is as flexible as it is delicious.

I love this recipe because it reminds me of family gatherings and cozy holiday meals, yet it’s so simple that even busy weeknights can feel special. Please drop a comment below with your own variations or how it turned out for you—I’m always excited to hear your stories!

Go ahead, make it your own, share it around, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite. You won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, but be sure to grate them finely and squeeze out all excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole. You may need to adjust baking time slightly.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free cornflakes and a gluten-free condensed soup or homemade white sauce to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it the day before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake when ready. You might need to add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?

Try cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option, or make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasoning.

How do I keep the topping crispy after reheating?

Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve the crunch. Cover loosely with foil for the first part of reheating, then uncover to crisp up the topping again.

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