Funeral potatoes are a beloved comfort food, perfect for gatherings or any time you're craving something hearty and satisfying. This version adds a savory crunch that takes the traditional dish up a notch, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Frozen shredded hash browns form the base of this dish, offering texture and convenience. Sour cream adds a tangy richness, while cream of chicken soup brings creaminess and depth of flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, savory taste. The melted unsalted butter is used both in the potato mixture for richness and in the topping to bind and flavor the crunchy breadcrumbs. Green onions add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the savory notes, and black pepper adds a hint of spice. Finally, the panko breadcrumbs create a crispy topping, elevated with smoked paprika for a touch of warmth and color.
This dish pairs well with roast chicken or a glazed ham, making it perfect for holiday meals. Add a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side to balance the richness of the potatoes. For a brunch twist, serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon.
First, you'll want to set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's ready for baking once you've prepared the potato mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of melted butter, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients together until they're well mixed. The goal here is a smooth, cohesive mixture that will evenly coat the hash browns.
Next, add the frozen hash browns to this creamy mixture. Stir until the hash browns are fully coated. This part requires a bit of elbow grease, but it’s important to ensure every piece of potato gets a good amount of the sauce. Once mixed, pour everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, making sure the surface is level.
Now, in a smaller bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter and the smoked paprika. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This mixture is your topping, and it’s going to bake up to a beautiful golden brown crunch. Sprinkle it evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes on the counter before serving. This resting time helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
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