Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best Cheesy Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty potatoes. Often referred to as “funeral potatoes,” this dish is a favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. It features tender hash brown potatoes mixed with a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with a buttery, crunchy topping for the perfect finish.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)sour creamcream of chicken soupcheddar cheese (shredded)butter (melted)onion (finely chopped)saltpeppercornflakes or crushed Ritz crackers (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, pepper, and chopped onion.

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and then add the hash brown potatoes, mixing until evenly coated.

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

In a separate bowl, combine crushed cornflakes or crackers with a bit of melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.

Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesCooling time: 5-10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version.

Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.

Use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

Add green chiles or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Top with French fried onions instead of crackers or cornflakes.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.You can freeze the unbaked casserole, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, just shred or cube them and parboil before mixing into the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble the dish and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.

What cheese melts best in this casserole?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Colby, mozzarella, or cheese blends also work well.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream soup and topping to make it gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish or make two pans and adjust baking time as needed.

Why is it called “funeral potatoes”?
The name comes from its popularity at post-funeral gatherings due to its comforting and crowd-pleasing nature.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a lighter option.

Should I thaw the hash browns before using?
It’s not necessary, but thawing can help reduce excess moisture and ensure even baking.

Can I make it spicy?
Yes, try adding cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the mix.

What’s the best topping for crunch?
Cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or French fried onions all add great texture—choose your favorite!

Conclusion

Best Cheesy Potato Casserole is a creamy, savory classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors and satisfying crunch. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a staple recipe worth keeping in your rotation.