If you're looking for a comforting, hearty side dish to serve at a funeral or any other gathering, Funeral Potatoes might be just what you need. This classic Mormon dish is a crowd favorite, made with creamy, cheesy potatoes and a crispy topping.
A 1/2 cup serving of Funeral Potatoes contains around 120 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbs. The dish is a good source of calcium and vitamin C, but also contains some sodium and cholesterol. As with any dish, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying Funeral Potatoes.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Funeral Potatoes or have never heard of them before, keep reading for everything you need to know about this beloved dish.
What are Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes are a classic comfort food dish that originated in the Mormon community in Utah. The dish is often served at post-funeral gatherings (hence the name), but it's also a popular side dish for potlucks, holidays, and other gatherings. The basic components of Funeral Potatoes are diced potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, and a buttery, crunchy topping made with cornflakes or crackers. Because it's so easy to make and universally appealing, Funeral Potatoes have become a staple in many households throughout the Western United States.
What are the ingredients of Funeral Potatoes?
To make Funeral Potatoes, you'll need:
- 2 lbs diced potatoes
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix together the potatoes, soup, sour cream, milk, cheese, and onion, then top with the melted butter and crushed cornflakes. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 45-50 minutes, or until bubbly and browned on top.
How many calories in 1/2 cup serving of Funeral Potatoes?
As mentioned earlier, a 1/2 cup serving of Funeral Potatoes contains around 120 calories. The dish is a good source of calcium and vitamin C, but does contain some saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. If you're watching your calorie and fat intake, it's best to enjoy Funeral Potatoes in moderation as a special treat rather than as a regular part of your diet.
How to make Funeral Potatoes?
To make Funeral Potatoes, follow these easy steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Peel and dice 2 lbs of potatoes into small cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of milk, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped onion. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the diced potatoes until well coated.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter and mix in 2 cups of crushed cornflakes. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the potatoes.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is browned and the potatoes are tender. Serve hot.
Feel free to play around with the ingredients and amounts to suit your tastes. Some recipes call for diced ham, green onions, or other add-ins.
What are the benefits of eating Funeral Potatoes?
While Funeral Potatoes aren't the healthiest dish out there, they do have some nutritional value. Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C, and the dish is also a decent source of calcium and protein from the cheese and sour cream. More than anything else, though, Funeral Potatoes are a comforting, satisfying dish that can bring people together in times of mourning or celebration.
What are the potential risks of eating Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes are a high-calorie, high-fat, and relatively high-sodium dish. If you're watching your weight, cholesterol, or blood pressure, it's best to enjoy Funeral Potatoes in moderation or as an occasional treat rather than as a regular part of your diet. Additionally, some versions of the dish may be made with ingredients that contain gluten, dairy, or other common allergens. Be sure to check with the cook or investigate the ingredients carefully to avoid any adverse reactions.
How to modify Funeral Potatoes recipe to make it healthier?
If you want to enjoy the flavor of Funeral Potatoes without as many calories or fat, there are some modifications you can make. Here are a few ideas:
- Use lower-fat or low-sodium versions of the ingredients, such as reduced-fat sour cream, low-sodium cream of chicken soup, or part-skim cheese.
- Use sweet potatoes or a mixture of sweet and white potatoes instead of all white potatoes.
- Add veggies like chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix to boost the nutritional value.
- Skip the cornflake topping or use a lighter topping like panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little Parmesan cheese.
- Limit your portion size to a small serving as a side dish rather than a larger serving as a main course.
By making a few adjustments, you can still enjoy the delicious flavor of Funeral Potatoes without as much guilt.
Where to get Funeral Potatoes?
If you're outside of the Western United States, it may be more difficult to find a restaurant or store that serves Funeral Potatoes. However, the dish is easy and affordable to make at home, so consider trying out one of the recipes available online or in cookbooks. If you're in Utah or the surrounding areas, you may be able to find Funeral Potatoes on the menu at a local diner, cafe, or catering company. Many Mormon families also have their own cherished recipes and traditions for making the dish.
What are the variations of Funeral Potatoes?
As with any beloved dish, there are countless variations of Funeral Potatoes to be found. Some common alterations include:
- Using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Parmesan.
- Adding in diced ham or bacon for extra protein and smoky flavor.
- Mixing in chopped green onions, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra spice and crunch.
- Substituting cream of mushroom soup for the chicken soup.
- Using potato chips or Ritz crackers instead of cornflakes for the topping.
Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite version of the dish!
What are the popular dishes to pair with Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes are a versatile side dish that can go well with a variety of main courses. Some popular dishes to pair with Funeral Potatoes include:
- Baked ham or roasted turkey
- Meatloaf or Salisbury steak
- Fried chicken or chicken-fried steak
- Beef stroganoff or Swedish meatballs
- Prime rib or roast beef
No matter what you choose to serve with Funeral Potatoes, your guests are sure to appreciate the comforting, homey feel of this classic dish.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Funeral Potatoes
1. What are funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes, also known as Mormon funeral potatoes, are a comforting and hearty side dish typically served at post-funeral gatherings or other large events in the Western United States. They usually consist of diced potatoes mixed with cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and other ingredients like onions or cornflakes for a crunchy topping.
2. What do funeral potatoes taste like?
Funeral potatoes have a creamy, savory flavor thanks to the addition of cheese and cream of mushroom soup. They can also have a slightly crunchy texture if topped with a layer of cornflakes before baking.
3. How are funeral potatoes typically served?
Funeral potatoes are often served as a side dish alongside other comfort foods like casseroles, baked beans, and deviled eggs. They're typically baked in a casserole dish and can be served hot or at room temperature.
4. Why are they called funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes got their name from their popularity at post-funeral gatherings in Utah and other Western states. They've become a staple dish for many families during times of mourning and are often seen as a way to provide comfort and nourishment to those who are grieving.
5. How many calories are in funeral potatoes?
One serving of funeral potatoes (1/2 cup or 32g) contains approximately 120 calories. However, this can vary depending on the recipe and whether any additional ingredients like butter or sour cream are added.