I am so excited to share this crockpot funeral potatoes recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.
The story behind funeral potatoes is that they originated in the Midwest, specifically in the state of Iowa, where they were served at funerals as a comfort food. The dish typically consists of shredded potatoes, ground beef or sausage, and a blend of cheeses, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture.
I love this recipe because it’s so easy to make and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My kids absolutely adore it, and I’m sure your family will love it just as much as mine does.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your liking by adding different types of cheese, spices, or even some diced ham or bacon. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or shredded cheese.
My husband always jokes that I’m a bit too generous with the cheese, but honestly, I think that’s what makes this dish so special – it’s all about the layers of flavor and texture that come together to create something truly delicious.
Crockpot Funeral Potatoes
4.8 from 1294 votes
This creamy and cheesy potato casserole is a comforting classic, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Shredded hash browns are mixed with a rich sour cream and cheese sauce, then cooked low and slow until bubbly and golden.
1In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
2Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
3Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker and spread it into an even layer.
4Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges.
5In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with 1/4 cup melted butter until the cereal is evenly coated.
6Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the cooked potatoes, then top with the buttered corn flakes.
7Cover the slow cooker again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, until the topping is crisp and the cheese is melted.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese. You can also add cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor. If you prefer a crunchy topping, remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Watch Video Of How Crockpot Funeral Potatoes Works
This crockpot funeral potatoes recipe is a reliable dish that always works well for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even a simple weeknight side. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, giving you tender, cheesy potatoes with minimal effort.
I love that I can prep it ahead and focus on other dishes while it cooks. For storage, let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container.
They will keep in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for a quick option, but the oven at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes will help restore some of the crispiness.
If you want to serve it again, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of crushed cornflakes or even some extra shredded cheese on top. This dish is always a good idea because it is comforting, easy, and loved by almost everyone.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Funeral Potatoes
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. You will need to peel and shred them, then rinse and squeeze out the excess moisture. Parboiling them for a few minutes before adding to the crockpot can help them cook evenly. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes may release more liquid, so you might need to adjust the cooking time or drain some liquid before serving.
2. How do I get the topping crispy in the crockpot?
The cornflake topping can get soggy if added too early. For the best crunch, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can toast the topping in a skillet or oven separately and sprinkle it on just before serving. This keeps the texture nice and crispy.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it?
Absolutely. You can assemble the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container or even in the crockpot insert. Freeze it unbaked for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Add the topping during the last 30 minutes as usual. This is a great time saver for busy weeks.
4. What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version, or cream of celery for a lighter flavor. A homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk works too. Just season it with salt, pepper, and a bit of chicken bouillon if you want. The key is to keep the sauce thick enough to coat the potatoes.
5. How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover funeral potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven. If the topping has lost its crunch, you can sprinkle on fresh crushed cornflakes before reheating. The flavors often meld together even more the next day, making them just as tasty.
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