Funeral potatoes

Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes, also known as Mormon Funeral Potatoes or Cheesy Potato Casserole, are a popular comfort food dish in the United States, particularly in the Intermountain West region. This article will provide a detailed overview of Funeral Potatoes, including their history, ingredients, preparation, and variations.

History

The exact origin of Funeral Potatoes is unclear, but they are believed to have originated within the Mormon community in Utah. The dish gained popularity due to its simplicity and ability to feed a large crowd, making it a common choice for post-funeral gatherings. Over time, Funeral Potatoes have become a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals throughout the region.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients for Funeral Potatoes typically include:

• Potatoes - Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are commonly used, peeled and diced into small cubes.
• Cheese - Cheddar cheese is the most common choice, shredded and mixed into the dish for a creamy and cheesy texture.
• Sour cream - Adds richness and tanginess to the dish.
• Cream of chicken soup - Provides a creamy base and enhances the flavor.
• Onion - Finely chopped onion adds flavor and depth to the dish.
• Butter - Melted butter is used to coat the potatoes and create a golden crust on top.
• Cornflakes or breadcrumbs - Used as a crunchy topping.

Additional ingredients such as garlic powder, salt, and pepper can be added to enhance the flavor according to personal preference.

Preparation

To prepare Funeral Potatoes, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, melted butter, and any additional seasonings.
3. Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, crush the cornflakes or mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Funeral Potatoes can be customized to suit individual preferences. Some popular variations include:

• Adding cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Incorporating diced ham or chicken for added protein.
• Mixing in vegetables such as broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Experimenting with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor profile.

See Also

• Potato dishes
• Casserole
• Comfort food