Funeral potatoes, also known as cheesy hashbrown casserole, are a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for gatherings and family dinners. This recipe for Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes will guide you through making this classic dish with ease and confidence.

What are Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes?

Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes are a rich and creamy potato casserole made with shredded hashbrowns, cheese, and a crunchy topping. This dish is a staple at many family gatherings and potlucks, offering a comforting and satisfying flavor that everyone loves.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Comforting and Delicious: A classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any cook.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, and holiday meals.

Versatile: Can be served as a side dish or a main course.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes

1 package (30 ounces) of frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed

1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups of sour cream
1/2 cup of melted butter

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 cups of cornflakes, crushed
1/4 cup of melted butter (for topping)

Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes Ingredients Substitutions

Hashbrowns: If you don’t have frozen shredded hashbrowns, you can use fresh potatoes. Peel and grate them, then soak in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and dry thoroughly before using.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a different flavor or to make it vegetarian.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Cheddar Cheese: You can use any melting cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Swiss for a different taste.
Onion: If you don’t have fresh onion, you can use onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) or dried minced onion (about 2 tablespoons).
Cornflakes: Crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips can be used as an alternative crunchy topping.

Butter: Margarine or a butter substitute can be used if you need a dairy-free option.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper.

Prepare the baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with 1/4 cup melted butter.
Top the casserole: Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes

Roasted Meats: Pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, or ham.

Green Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Bread Rolls: Complements the dish with some warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
Fresh Fruit: A side of fruit salad can add a refreshing contrast.

Gravy: A drizzle of gravy can enhance the creamy texture and flavor.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes

Thaw Hashbrowns: Ensure hashbrowns are completely thawed to avoid excess moisture.
Mix Evenly: Combine ingredients thoroughly for a uniform texture and flavor.

Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheddar cheese for the best melt and taste.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Prevent Sogginess: Ensure the cornflakes are crushed finely and mixed well with butter for a crispy topping.

Let it Set: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to set properly.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes

Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or cooked chicken for a heartier dish.
Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Different Toppings: Try using crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for extra flavor.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss.

Storing Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer to airtight containers to keep fresh.

Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
Label Containers: Include the date of storage for easy tracking.

Avoid Overcrowding: Store in single layers to prevent squashing.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes: Best Practices

Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave Option: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

Add Moisture: Sprinkle a bit of water or add a pat of butter before reheating to retain moisture.
Cover with Foil: Use foil in the oven to prevent the top from over-browning.
Check Temperature: Ensure the center of the casserole is hot before serving.

Serve Immediately: Enjoy the reheated casserole fresh from the oven.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 360
Total Fat: 24g

Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg

Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g

Protein: 8g

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns for funeral potatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns for funeral potatoes. Simply peel and grate the fresh potatoes, then soak them in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and dry the grated potatoes thoroughly before using them in the recipe. This substitution can give your dish a fresher taste and a slightly different texture.

What can I substitute for cornflakes in funeral potatoes?

If you don’t have cornflakes, you can substitute them with crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips. These alternatives will provide a similar crunchy topping and add their own unique flavors to the dish. Just mix them with melted butter as you would with cornflakes.

How do you prevent funeral potatoes from becoming watery?

To prevent funeral potatoes from becoming watery, ensure that the hashbrowns are fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture before mixing them with other ingredients. Additionally, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can break down the potatoes and release more moisture. Baking the casserole uncovered can also help evaporate any excess liquid during cooking.

Can funeral potatoes be made ahead of time?

Yes, funeral potatoes can be made ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), remove the cover, and bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. This makes it a convenient option for preparing in advance for gatherings and busy days.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Funeral Potatoes are a delightful and comforting addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, these cheesy, creamy potatoes are sure to please. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish!

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