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Small batch funeral potatoes are the ultimate comfort food when you are craving something creamy and cheesy with a crunchy top. This version delivers all the classic flavors in a manageable size — perfect for a cozy dinner or a small gathering.
I made these for my neighbor after a tough week and she ended up asking for the recipe right away. Now it is my go to for potlucks and small holiday meals.
Ingredients
- Frozen cubed potatoes: look for the diced kind not shredded and let them fully thaw so they bake evenly
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: adds rich flavor and binds the mixture use a good quality brand for the best taste
- Sour cream: gives a tangy creamy boost to the potatoes choose full fat for extra richness
- Shredded cheddar cheese: creates gooey pockets and sharp flavor freshly grated melts more smoothly
- Garlic powder: brings savory warmth make sure yours is fresh for the best kick
- Salt: enhances all the flavors go with kosher salt so you can control the seasoning
- Corn flakes cereal: delivers that signature crunch make sure they are crisp not stale
- Butter: helps the topping turn deeply golden and buttery let it melt completely for even coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish:
- Coat your chosen baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make serving easy
- Mix the Potato Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the thawed potatoes condensed soup sour cream cheddar garlic powder and salt Use a sturdy spoon to mix until every potato cube is coated with sauce
- Spread Into the Dish:
- Pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish Use a spatula to make an even flat layer so the potatoes cook uniformly
- Crush and Butter the Cereal:
- Add the corn flakes to a zip top bag and gently squeeze to break the flakes into small pieces Pour the crumbs into a small bowl and add melted butter Stir until all flakes are shiny and coated
- Top and Bake:
- Scatter the buttery cereal evenly over the potatoes to create a thick layer Bake uncovered for 35 minutes until the topping is crisp and the sides are bubbling
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for five minutes before scooping This helps the layers set and makes serving easier
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Our family loves the extra crunch from corn flakes but it was my grandma who insisted on using double the amount I still think of her every time I crush those flakes by hand and her laughter in the kitchen.
Storage Tips
Funeral potatoes store well in the fridge for three days Cover tightly after cooling To reheat just cover with foil and warm in a hot oven for about twenty minutes for best texture The topping will stay crisp if you avoid microwaving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a twist try using cream of mushroom soup for a meat free version You can also swap in plain greek yogurt for sour cream in a pinch Any good melting cheese works here Colby jack or Monterey Jack are delicious choices
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot right out of the dish with roasted ham or a simple green salad These potatoes are a classic at brunch next to scrambled eggs or as part of a hearty dinner plate They also pair well with roasted vegetables
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Cultural and Historical Context
Funeral potatoes have roots in American comfort food especially in the Mountain West and Midwest The name comes from their popularity as a dish shared at gatherings potlucks or after funerals For many they taste like family memories and support during tough times
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen cubes?
Yes, simply peel and dice raw potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Parboil them briefly until just tender, then proceed as usual for best texture.
- → What’s a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup as an alternative. For a homemade option, blend a roux of butter, flour, and chicken broth with a dash of milk.
- → How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Ensure you distribute the melted butter evenly over the corn flakes and avoid covering the dish with foil during baking, which preserves the crispness.
- → Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the potato mixture and topping separately, refrigerate, then add the topping just before baking to maintain its crunch.
- → Can I add other ingredients to the potato mix?
Diced cooked ham, green onions, or chopped bell peppers can be stirred in for extra flavor and variation.