Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Funeral Potatoes are a classic potato casserole loaded with cheese and topped with a crunchy cornflake crust.

This creamy hash brown casserole is true comfort food, often made for big gatherings like holiday dinners, church potlucks, or yes; funerals. Despite the name, it’s not just for somber occasions. Funeral potatoes are beloved because they’re easy to prepare, feed a crowd, and bring comfort to the table.

Why Do They Call It Funeral Potatoes?

The name comes from the tradition of serving this casserole at after-funeral luncheons, especially in Utah and Idaho. Church groups often prepared big trays of these cheesy potatoes to comfort families and guests after services. Over time, the association stuck, and the dish became widely known as funeral potatoes. While the name might sound unusual, it reflects how often this casserole was used to provide care and nourishment during difficult times. Today, many simply call it cheesy potatoes or party potatoes at gatherings outside of funerals.

What Is Considered Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral potatoes are typically made with diced or shredded potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed cream soup, butter, and a crispy topping of cornflakes, crackers, or potato chips. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, creating a creamy center and crunchy top.

There’s no single “official” recipe since every family has its own version. Some keep it simple with just the basics, while others add ingredients like ham, bacon, or green onions. The topping also varies—cornflakes are traditional, but plenty of cooks use crushed Ritz crackers or chips. No matter the version, the heart of funeral potatoes is always the same: a cheesy potato casserole with a crunchy topping.

Why Are Funeral Potatoes Popular in Utah?

Funeral potatoes are especially tied to Utah’s culture because of the LDS (Mormon) community. They became a staple at church gatherings thanks to their practicality. The ingredients are inexpensive, easy to store, and feed a large group without much effort. Over the years, they’ve grown beyond just funerals and are now served at holidays, church potlucks, and family events across the state.

The dish has even become a point of pride in Utah’s food culture, appearing at everything from neighborhood dinners to state celebrations. It’s a symbol of togetherness and hospitality that continues to be passed down through generations.

Can You Use Fresh Potatoes for Funeral Potatoes?

Yes, fresh potatoes work just fine. Most recipes call for frozen hash browns because they’re quick and convenient, but if you’d like to use fresh ones, simply parboil them first. Peel and dice or shred your potatoes, boil them briefly until slightly tender, then drain and cool before mixing them into the casserole. This step ensures they cook through evenly while baking. Fresh potatoes can give the dish a more homemade touch while still keeping the rich, cheesy comfort intact.

Storage Instructions

Leftover funeral potatoes store well and make excellent next-day meals. Allow the casserole to cool, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will keep for 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven until hot.

For longer storage, you can freeze funeral potatoes. Assemble the casserole but wait to add the crunchy topping until baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, top with cornflakes or chips, and bake. You can also freeze leftovers, though the texture is best when frozen before baking.