From Church Potlucks to Family Tables: Utah's Classic Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Photo byPatricia Baker

In Utah, one dish stands out as both a comforting side and a symbol of community gatherings—Funeral Potatoes. Whether served at family dinners, potlucks, or after a somber occasion, this cheesy, creamy, and crunchy casserole is always a hit. Despite its somber name, this dish is all about bringing people together, offering a bite of warmth and nostalgia.

The essence of Utah-style Funeral Potatoes comes from its creamy texture, thanks to sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and melted cheddar, all mixed with perfectly cooked hash browns. Topped with crunchy cornflakes, this casserole creates a balance of soft and crispy, making it irresistible to anyone who tries it. The dish's roots lie deep in Mormon culture, where community gatherings often include hearty, comforting foods that feed large groups.

Recipe: Utah Funeral Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs frozen southern-style hash brown potatoes (cubed or shredded)
• 2 tablespoons minced onions
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Topping:
• • 2 ½ cups crushed cornflakes
  • ½ cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns and minced onions.
3. Stir in sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and shredded cheddar cheese until fully combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
5. For the topping, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the potato mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

This dish pairs perfectly with other comfort foods and is an ideal centerpiece for gatherings. Its balance of rich creaminess and crunchy texture makes every bite satisfying, a true testament to Utah’s love for hearty casseroles. Whether you’re cooking for a large family gathering or looking for an easy dish to bring to a potluck, Utah's Funeral Potatoes will always deliver.

Here are some helpful sources for the Funeral Potatoes recipe and its background:

1. Creations by Kara offers a great breakdown of the Funeral Potatoes recipe and explains its significance, especially in Utah culture. You can read more about the recipe and variations here​(Creations by Kara).
2. The Stay At Home Chef also provides a traditional Funeral Potatoes recipe, complete with details on preparation and cooking tips. Their version includes a few variations and topping alternatives. Check out the full recipe here​(The Stay At Home Chef).
3. Southern Living provides insights into why this dish is such a beloved comfort food, especially below the Mason-Dixon line. Their take on Funeral Potatoes focuses on the cheesy and crunchy texture that makes it so appealing. Explore their version here​(Southern Living).

These sources should give you a comprehensive view of the recipe and its cultural significance.