Funeral potatoes – a name that might raise eyebrows but a dish that will warm your soul. This creamy, cheesy casserole is a staple in many communities, especially during gatherings after funerals (hence the name).
But don’t let its somber moniker fool you, these potatoes are anything but gloomy.

They’re rich, indulgent, and perfect for feeding a crowd at potlucks, holiday dinners, or even lazy Sunday brunches.
In this blog post, I’ll try to break down Keri’s Funeral Potatoes With Hashbrowns recipe step by step, sprinkle in some creative insights about her approach, and share how you can replicate this dish with ease.
Plus, I’ll recommend a few handy tools and ingredients along the way to make your life easier – and tastier.
But first, let’s take a quick look at how to make funeral potatoes with hashbrowns in the below video followed by a step-by-step breakdown.
Ingredients Required To Make Funeral Potatoes With Hashbrowns
Keri keeps things straightforward with an ingredient list that’s as humble as it is delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup – A classic base for casseroles, this adds creaminess and depth. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap it out for cream of mushroom soup.
- ¾ cup of milk – Any kind works, but whole milk gives the dish extra richness.
Pro tip: Pouring the milk back and forth between the empty soup cans helps scrape out every last bit of goodness – a trick passed down from Keri’s mom. - 1 cup of sour cream – Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the cheese and butter. Keri eyeballs this measurement, which shows her confidence in the kitchen. For precision lovers, grab a measuring cup set.
- 2 cups of shredded cheese – Cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with blends like Monterey Jack or Colby for added flavor.
- 1 bag of thawed hash browns – Frozen hash browns are convenient, but they must be thawed first for optimal texture. Trust Keri’s “pro tip” on this one – it makes all the difference.
- ½ cup of chopped onion – Fresh or dehydrated both work. Dehydrated onions are a great pantry staple if you want to skip chopping altogether.
- ⅓ cup of melted butter – Butter is non-negotiable here. Its flavor seeps into every layer, creating that irresistible aroma.
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter – More butter? Yes, please!
- 2 cups of crushed corn flakes – These add a delightful crunch to contrast the creamy interior. Crushing them in a ziplock bag is not only efficient but oddly satisfying.
Affiliate Disclosure: Kitchen tools and ingredients mentioned in this post have been carefully selected based on years of professional experience. Some links above and within the article are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Rest assured, I only suggest or recommend kitchen essentials or things I use and trust in my own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions To Make Funeral Potatoes With Hashbrowns
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the process Keri demonstrates so effortlessly.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by combining the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Keri uses a whisk to blend everything smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain. This step sets the foundation for the dish’s creamy texture.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on bowls, consider investing in a multi-functional mixing bowl set that doubles as storage containers. It’s a game-changer for minimizing cleanup!
Step 2: Add the Hash Browns and Onions
Once the base is ready, fold in the thawed hash browns and chopped onions.
Note that, thawed hash browns are mandatory as frozen ones release excess moisture during baking, leading to a soggy casserole.
So once thawed, blend everything together until the ingredients are uniformly spread throughout.
Step 3: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan generously with cooking spray.
Keri ensures every corner is coated to prevent sticking – a lesson learned from experience, no doubt.
Spread the potato mixture evenly across the pan for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, melt two tablespoons of butter in the microwave.
Crush the corn flakes in a ziplock bag (a therapeutic activity, according to Keri!) and mix them with the melted butter.
Sprinkle this crunchy topping over the casserole, ensuring full coverage.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for one hour. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes to ensure the top doesn’t burn.
When done, the edges should be bubbly, and the topping should be golden brown.
Customization Ideas
While Keri sticks to the classic version, there’s plenty of room to get creative:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom and use vegetable broth instead of milk.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a bolder flavor profile.
Products I Like, Use & That Enhances The Cooking Procedure
To make your Funeral Potato journey smoother, here are a few products worth considering:
- Non-Stick Baking Pan: A high-quality 9×13-inch pan ensures easy cleanup and even heat distribution.
- Ziploc Bags: Perfect for crushing corn flakes without making a mess. Stock up on resealable bags for other kitchen hacks too.
- Measuring Cups: Precision matters, especially for beginners. Grab a durable measuring cup set to nail those measurements.
Final Thoughts
Funeral potatoes may have a quirky name, but their appeal lies in their simplicity and versatility.
With Keri’s guidance, anyone can master this comforting dish.
So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and give this recipe a try.
And remember, cooking isn’t just about following instructions – it’s about creating memories, one delicious bite at a time.