Funeral Potatoes is a creamy cheesy potato casserole made with frozen diced potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheddar cheese, topped with a crunchy buttery layer of crushed potato chips. This easy potato bake is a popular comfort food side dish often served at holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, and Sunday dinners. Known for its rich texture and golden crispy topping, this cheesy potato casserole is simple to prepare and uses basic pantry ingredients. Perfect for those searching for easy casserole recipes, cheesy potato bake, hash brown casserole, or crowd-pleasing side dishes for any occasion.

Ingredients

28 oz frozen cubed O’Brien potatoes, thawed
1 tsp garlic salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried onion flakes
1 tbsp dried chives
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
2 cups sour cream
2 cups finely crushed potato chips (measured after crushing)
3 tbsp salted butter, melted

Instructions

Thaw the frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator or leave them at room temperature for about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 11×7-inch baking dish (or 9×13-inch for a thinner layer).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed potatoes with garlic salt, black pepper, dried onion flakes, dried chives, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Add the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, until hot and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and evenly sprinkle crushed potato chips over the top.
Drizzle melted butter over the chips.
Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
For a golden, crisp topping, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Let rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and a crunchy topping for a rich and satisfying side dish. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or family meals.

Tips

Fully thawing the potatoes helps them cook evenly.
Crush potato chips finely for a more even topping layer.
Let the casserole rest before serving so it holds its shape better.
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
Add cooked bacon bits for extra smokiness.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before baking for best texture. Thaw before cooking.

What if I don’t have O’Brien potatoes?
Use plain diced frozen potatoes and add chopped bell peppers if desired.

Serving

Serve warm as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled chicken, ham, or holiday main courses. It pairs especially well with classic comfort food meals.

Suggestions

Top with fresh chives, green onions, or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving. It also works well alongside simple salads or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.