Description
Slow Cooker Funeral Potatoes (Hash Brown Casserole)
Ingredients
1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup diced onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup crushed potato chips or cornflakes (for topping)
Directions
Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and spread evenly.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crushed potato chips or cornflakes on top for a crunchy finish.
Serve warm and enjoy this comforting classic!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Equipment: Lightly coat your slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Base: In a very large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly distributed and the hash browns are well-coated.
3. Cook: Transfer the mixture to your prepared slow cooker. Spread it into an even layer. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the edges are bubbly.
4. Add the Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crushed potato chips or cornflakes evenly over the top. This allows the topping to get slightly crispy without burning. Replace the lid for the final 30 minutes.
5. Serve: Turn off the slow cooker. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to set slightly before scooping and serving warm.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and cheesy casserole is the ultimate comfort side dish. It pairs perfectly with baked ham, roasted chicken, or holiday turkey. For a complete comforting meal, serve it alongside green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted carrots. It’s also a fantastic brunch dish next to scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
How-to Summary
Spray slow cooker. Mix all base ingredients (hash browns, cheese, soup, sour cream, butter, onion, seasonings) in a large bowl. Transfer to cooker. Cook on LOW 4-5 hrs or HIGH 2-3 hrs. Top with crushed chips 30 mins before serving. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the mixture in the bowl, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking as directed.
Can I use fresh potatoes? It’s not recommended. Frozen hash browns are par-cooked and have less moisture, which is crucial for the right texture. Fresh potatoes may release too much water.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? Cream of mushroom or celery soup work well. For a vegetarian version, use a cream of potato or cream of celery soup.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Why are they called “Funeral Potatoes”? The name comes from the dish’s common appearance at post-funeral gatherings in the American Midwest, where comforting, easy-to-transport casseroles are shared.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing once the hash browns are added, as they can break down. Do not thaw the hash browns, as this adds excess moisture and leads to a soggy casserole. Resist the urge to stir the casserole during cooking, as this prevents proper heating and texture development. Finally, adding the crunchy topping too early will cause it to become soggy instead of crisp.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Funeral Potatoes are the epitome of easy, crowd-pleasing comfort food. With minimal prep and the hands-off convenience of your crockpot, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any gathering, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. This reliable recipe delivers classic flavor with every bite.