Funeral potatoes—now there’s a name that sticks with you. They’re a savory, comforting casserole, most often spotted at gatherings after memorial services, especially in certain pockets of the United States.
Despite the somber association, their rich, creamy goodness has made them a staple at all sorts of potlucks and family get-togethers. The base is usually hash browns or diced potatoes, mixed with a creamy sauce (cheese is a must), and then topped off with something crunchy—crushed cereal or potato chips, usually—before it all goes into the oven until golden and bubbling.
Though the dish is most closely tied to the Intermountain West and the culture of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, funeral potatoes have spread far beyond those borders. They really started as a way for Mormon communities to show up for each other during tough times, bringing food as a gesture of comfort and solidarity.
Over time, the recipe has evolved, with folks adding their own twists—think onions, garlic, or swapping in different cheeses and toppings. There’s something oddly heartwarming about seeing how people make it their own.
Key Takeaways
- Funeral potatoes are a go-to dish for post-funeral gatherings, but honestly, they show up at all sorts of events now.
- The dish traces its roots to the Intermountain West, where it’s woven into the tradition of community support.
- It’s usually potatoes, a creamy sauce, cheese, and a crispy topping—but there are endless variations.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Funeral potatoes carry a history that’s all about comfort and community. It’s a dish with meaning, not just flavor.
Why are they called funeral potatoes?
The name “funeral potatoes” comes from their frequent appearance at meals after funerals, especially among the LDS community. It’s a way to offer something hearty and soothing to people who are grieving—food really does speak when words fail.
Regional Popularity
These potatoes may have started in the Midwest, but they’re now a beloved staple throughout the Intermountain West and beyond. You’ll spot them at holiday dinners—Christmas, Easter, you name it—and they’re a hit at potlucks too.
Traditional Events and Uses
- Christmas and Easter: They’re often served with ham or turkey during big holiday feasts.
- Potlucks: Easy to make, easy to share. No wonder they’re a classic for community events.
- Mourning Rituals: The name says it all—they’re a source of comfort at gatherings honoring loved ones.
Basic Recipe and Variations
At its core, funeral potatoes are all about comfort. There’s just something about that creamy, cheesy texture that hits the spot, especially when you need it most.
Classic Funeral Potatoes
The classic version? It’s a mix of thawed frozen hash browns, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping—all baked until it’s golden and irresistible. The sauce usually blends sour cream and cream of chicken soup, with a healthy handful of shredded cheddar and some diced onion for good measure.
You layer the hash browns in a baking dish, pour over that creamy mixture, then top it all with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter. Pop it in the oven and let the magic happen.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cornflakes or breadcrumbs
Alternative Ingredients
Potatoes au gratin or scalloped potatoes can work as a base for funeral potatoes instead of hash browns. This swap gives you a totally different texture—some folks love the change, others might not be so sure.
For the sauce, you don’t have to stick with the classic. “Cream of” soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery are pretty solid alternatives if you’re after something a little less traditional or just want to mix things up.
Usually, it’s cheddar cheese in the mix, but why not experiment? Pepper jack, gouda, or even a wild blend of cheeses could add some extra oomph.
Vegetarians can grab a vegetarian-friendly “cream of” soup. And if you’re feeling adventurous, tossing in green onions, bacon bits, or jalapenos might just be the move for a richer or spicier bite.
Alternative Ingredients:
- Potatoes au gratin or scalloped potatoes
- Cream of mushroom/celery soup
- Variety of cheese
- Additional mix-ins: green onions, bacon bits, jalapenos