The Ultimate Creamy Company Potatoes Recipe (Funeral Potatoes)
Our absolute favorite seven-ingredient creamy Company Potatoes, famously known as Funeral Potatoes, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks, tailgate parties, holiday meals, and any cherished family gathering. This timeless potato casserole brings comfort, joy, and irresistible flavor to every plate.
From Our Kitchen to Yours: A Timeless Classic
Even with countless new recipes developed and tested each month, some dishes stand the test of time, becoming beloved family traditions. This particular recipe for Company Potatoes is one such treasure, a dish I’ve proudly prepared for over two decades. I owe its delicious simplicity entirely to my wonderful mother-in-law, Sue, who first introduced our family to this incredible potato casserole.
What makes these Company Potatoes so special? It’s their perfect blend of zest, creaminess, and cheesy goodness, all wrapped up in a hearty, deep pan that’s generous enough to feed a crowd. This versatile side dish shines particularly bright during the holiday season, pairing flawlessly with festive mains like holiday turkeys and savory hams. Its ease and comforting flavors make it a staple for Thanksgiving and Christmas tables.
The secret to its effortless flavor lies in using frozen Potatoes O’Brien – a clever shortcut that provides cubed potatoes, onions, and peppers all in one bag, saving you precious prep time. This convenient blend forms the perfect foundation for a rich, creamy base created with sour cream, vibrant salsa verde, a generous helping of shredded cheese, and a secret touch of chicken base. The grand finale? A golden, crispy topping made from crushed cornflakes, adding an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender potatoes below.
Why Company Potatoes Will Be Your New Go-To Dish
- Effortless Cleanup: We understand that delicious food shouldn’t come at the cost of endless scrubbing. That’s why this recipe is designed for maximum convenience: all ingredients can be mixed directly in the casserole dish. Less mess, more enjoyment!
- The Ultimate Comfort Food Hero: Imagine a dish that brings warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Our creamy, rich, and utterly divine potato casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Its cheesy, tender potatoes and crunchy topping create a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more.
- Simple, Wallet-Friendly Ingredients: You don’t need exotic or expensive items to create something extraordinary. This recipe calls for just seven easy-to-find ingredients that are not only readily available at any grocery store but also incredibly budget-friendly. Great taste doesn’t have to break the bank!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual Sunday dinner, a bustling holiday gathering, a potluck with friends, or a lively tailgate party, Company Potatoes are always a hit. Their universal appeal makes them suitable for any event, ensuring happy faces around the table.
You don’t have to wait for a special occasion or the holiday season to indulge in this amazing Company Potatoes easy side dish. Give it a try for your next Sunday dinner, and watch it become an instant family favorite!
A Brief History of “Funeral Potatoes”
The intriguing alternative name, “Funeral Potatoes,” often sparks curiosity. While “Company Potatoes” perfectly describes their suitability for guests, “Funeral Potatoes” points to their origins as a common dish served at post-funeral luncheons and other large communal gatherings, particularly in the Intermountain West region of the United States. This creamy, comforting casserole was, and still is, a popular choice because it’s easy to make in large batches, travels well, and offers a warm, satisfying meal during times of sorrow or celebration. Its humble beginnings as a practical dish have blossomed into a nationwide phenomenon, cherished for its comforting appeal and undeniable deliciousness, regardless of the occasion.
Key Ingredients and Expert Tips for the Best Company Potatoes
- Frozen Potatoes O’Brien Hash Browns: This is your brilliant shortcut! Potatoes O’Brien are a fantastic blend of cubed potatoes, diced onions, and bell peppers, providing extra flavor and texture without additional chopping. Ensure they are completely thawed before mixing to prevent a watery casserole and ensure even baking. If Potatoes O’Brien aren’t available, simply use plain diced or shredded hash browns and consider adding finely diced onion and bell pepper for a similar flavor profile.
- Sour Cream: For the richest, creamiest base, always opt for a full-fat sour cream. Its tangy richness is crucial for the signature texture and flavor of this casserole. While low-fat versions can be used, they may result in a slightly less luxurious consistency.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful, robust flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. For the best melt and taste, we recommend shredding your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect its melt, but it’s a perfectly acceptable convenience if you’re short on time. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Colby Jack or a Mexican blend.
- Salsa Verde: This vibrant green salsa introduces a zesty, slightly tangy kick that elevates the entire dish. Use your favorite jarred variety for convenience. If salsa verde is hard to find, green enchilada sauce makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar flavor profile and consistency.
- Chicken Bouillon Base: This is a secret ingredient that deepens the savory notes of the casserole. Whether you use powdered, paste, or cubes dissolved in a small amount of hot water, it adds a layer of umami that truly enhances the potato base. For a vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable bouillon.
- Corn Flakes: The classic choice for that iconic golden, crispy topping! Good old regular Corn Flakes, crushed, provide the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy potatoes. This topping isn’t just for texture; it adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Melted Butter: Essential for coating the crushed cornflakes. The butter helps the cornflakes crisp up beautifully in the oven, turning them into a delectable, golden crust.
How To Make the Best Cheesy Company Potatoes
This cheesy and creamy potato dish is the ultimate comfort food and incredibly easy to prepare! Just combine all the base ingredients into one pan, top it off, and bake until golden and bubbly. Here’s a detailed guide to creating this crowd-pleasing casserole:
Company Potatoes Recipe
5 minutes
1 hour
1 hour 5 minutes
Our favorite seven-ingredient creamy Company Potatoes, also known as Funeral Potatoes, is a true crowd-pleaser at potlucks, tailgate parties, holiday meals, and any family gathering.
18
Ingredients
- 2 bags frozen Potatoes O’Brien mix, thawed (28-ounce bags)
- 24 ounces sour cream (full-fat recommended for best results)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated for best melt)
- 2 cups salsa verde, or green enchilada sauce
- 1 tablespoon powdered chicken base, paste, or 3 bouillon cubes (dissolved)
- 3 cups corn flakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large 3-quart baking dish, combine the thawed Potatoes O’Brien, sour cream, salsa verde (or enchilada sauce), shredded cheddar cheese, and chicken base. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Spread the mixture out evenly in the baking dish.
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Prepare the crispy topping: Place the cornflakes in a large plastic zip-top bag. Seal the bag and crush the cornflakes using a rolling pin or your hands until they are coarsely crumbled. Pour the melted butter into the bag with the crushed cornflakes and toss gently to ensure the cornflakes are evenly coated.
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Evenly sprinkle the buttered cornflakes over the entire surface of the potato mixture in the baking dish. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
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Bake the covered casserole for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the potato mixture is bubbly around the edges. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Storing Leftovers – Place any leftover Company Potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Leftovers – For longer storage, freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Leftovers – You can reheat this casserole in the microwave for quick individual servings, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through. For a crispier topping when reheating in the oven, you can leave it uncovered for the last few minutes.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 cup,
Calories: 359 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 14 g,
Protein: 12 g,
Fat: 28 g,
Saturated Fat: 16 g,
Cholesterol: 79 mg,
Sodium: 737 mg,
Potassium: 351 mg,
Fiber: 1 g,
Sugar: 4 g,
Vitamin A: 1210 IU,
Vitamin C: 7.4 mg,
Calcium: 346 mg,
Iron: 3.5 mg
Side Dish
American
Sommer Collier
Elevate Your Dish: Creative Variations and Dietary Swaps
- Add a Touch of Heat: For those who love a little spice, stir in some diced green chiles or jalapeños (fresh or canned) into the potato mixture before baking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle warmth.
- Bacon Lover’s Dream: Crispy, crumbled bacon is a fantastic addition! Stir cooked bacon bits into the potato layer for savory pockets of flavor, or sprinkle them over the top along with the cornflakes for extra crunch.
- Deepen the Flavor with Caramelized Onions: For a more sophisticated twist, fold in some beautifully caramelized onions. Their sweet and savory notes will add incredible depth to the casserole.
- Extra Creaminess Indulgence: If you desire an even richer, creamier texture, add 4-6 ounces of softened cream cheese to the potato mixture. It melts seamlessly and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
- Alternative Crunchy Toppers: While cornflakes are traditional, feel free to get creative with your topping! Crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, a mix of breadcrumbs and parmesan, or even crispy fried onions can provide a delightful textural contrast.
- Fresh Garnishes for Brightness: Finish your baked Company Potatoes with a sprinkle of sliced green onions, fresh chives, or chopped fresh cilantro just before serving. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of complementary flavor.
- Cheese Blends: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar! A blend of Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of smoked gouda can introduce new dimensions of flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this dish suitable for vegetarians, simply swap the chicken bouillon base for a high-quality vegetable bouillon.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Company Potatoes
While these Company Potatoes are certainly hearty enough to be a meal on their own (perhaps with a simple green salad), they truly excel as the PERFECT side dish, complementing a wide array of main courses. Their creamy, cheesy goodness makes them incredibly versatile:
They pair amazingly with my famous Mom’s Best Pot Roast, creating a classic, soul-satisfying meal. For poultry lovers, this dish is a dream alongside a juicy Honey Orange Roasted Chicken.
During the holidays, elevate your feast by serving up these potatoes with a classic Almond Crusted Baked Ham or with a finger-licking good Steak and Country Gravy. They’re also an ideal accompaniment to barbecue, grilled steaks, pork chops, or even a simple weeknight meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions About Company Potatoes
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for make-ahead planning. You can prepare the entire potato mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix all the base ingredients, cover the baking dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Do NOT add the crunchy cornflake topping until you are ready to bake. Just before baking, sprinkle the buttered cornflakes over the top, then proceed with the baking instructions.
No problem at all! If you can’t find Potatoes O’Brien, you can easily substitute with plain diced hash browns. To mimic the flavor profile of Potatoes O’Brien, consider adding about ½ cup of finely diced onion and ½ cup of finely diced bell peppers (red or green) to the potato mixture. Ensure any substitute hash browns are also thawed before mixing.
Yes, it’s very easy to adapt for a vegetarian diet! Simply swap the chicken bouillon base for an equal amount of good quality vegetable bouillon base or cubes (dissolved according to package directions).
For that perfect golden, crispy topping, make sure your cornflakes are thoroughly coated in melted butter. Also, don’t skimp on the final uncovered baking time; allowing the casserole to bake for 10-15 minutes without foil at the end is crucial. If your oven has a broiler, a quick minute or two under the broiler (watch carefully!) can achieve extra crispness and browning, but this is optional.
While technically possible, using fresh potatoes would require significantly more preparation. You would need to peel, dice, and par-boil them until they are tender-crisp before proceeding with the recipe. Frozen hash browns (especially Potatoes O’Brien) are recommended for their convenience and consistent texture in this casserole.
