Slow Cooker Funeral Potatoes (Hash Brown Casserole)

Cook Time: 180 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 bag (32 oz.) frozen diced potatoes
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• cup kettle-cooked potato chips

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the frozen potatoes, cream of celery soup, chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, sour cream, butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
2. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker, ensuring its spread evenly. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
3. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 3 hours, stirring once every hour to ensure even cooking.
4. After 3 hours, turn off the slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover and let the cheese melt, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Once the cheese has melted, transfer the dish to a serving bowl. Top with crushed kettle-cooked potato chips for added crunch and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	337
Total Fat	22g (28% DV)
Saturated Fat	13g (63% DV)
Cholesterol	54mg (18% DV)
Sodium	1087mg (47% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	25g (9% DV)
Dietary Fiber	2g (7% DV)
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	10g (20% DV)
Vitamin C	2mg (2% DV)
Calcium	255mg (20% DV)
Iron	1mg (3% DV)
Potassium	201mg (4% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values (%DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your individual needs. If you're following a medically restricted diet, consult a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Funeral Potatoes, also known as Hash Brown Casserole, is a beloved comfort food found primarily in the American Midwest and Western regions. This dish is a creamy, cheesy casserole made with frozen hash browns, cream of celery soup, sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, garlic, and often topped with crushed potato chips for added crunch. Although it is a staple at family gatherings, it gained its name from being a common dish served at funerals, where family and friends gather to comfort each other and share meals. Funeral Potatoes have become synonymous with community, warmth, and home-cooked love.

History and Origins

The origins of Funeral Potatoes are closely tied to church potlucks and the strong sense of community found in rural America. It is thought that the dish was created in the mid-20th century, where people began looking for simple, easy-to-make, and crowd-pleasing casseroles for large gatherings. It quickly became a go-to comfort food for occasions like funerals, family reunions, and holidays. The dish's practical appeal is due to its ability to feed a large number of people without requiring too much preparation, while still providing a satisfying, hearty meal.

Regional Variations

While Funeral Potatoes are most commonly associated with the American Midwest and Western United States, regional variations exist. In Utah, for instance, it is often served as part of a traditional meal after funerals, and some might add additional ingredients such as bacon or green onions. In other parts of the U.S., the dish may be made with different types of canned soup (such as cream of mushroom), and some recipes substitute sour cream for cream cheese or mayonnaise. Despite these small differences, the core elements of the dishpotatoes, cheese, and creamy sauceremain consistent.

Distinguishing Features

Funeral Potatoes differ from other potato casseroles in several ways. While many potato casseroles feature mashed potatoes or sliced potatoes, Funeral Potatoes are made using hash browns, which give the dish a slightly different texture. The use of cream of celery soup and sour cream adds richness and tang, making it more indulgent compared to other more straightforward potato casseroles. The crunchy topping of crushed potato chips further sets it apart, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy interior.

Where Its Typically Served

As the name suggests, Funeral Potatoes are most commonly served at funerals, especially in the Western U.S., where they are a fixture at church potlucks and memorial services. However, they are also a popular side dish at other large gatherings such as holidays, family reunions, and picnics. The ease of preparation and the ability to make it ahead of time makes it ideal for these occasions. It pairs particularly well with roasted meats, fried chicken, and other hearty main courses.

Interesting Facts

1. The name "Funeral Potatoes" is actually quite fitting, as it highlights the dishs role in bringing comfort to people during difficult times. The casserole is not just a meal, but a symbol of compassion and community support.

2. Some variations of the dish include the addition of a crusty topping made from French fried onions or breadcrumbs instead of the classic potato chips, adding yet another layer of flavor and texture.

3. Although it is most commonly associated with funerals, Funeral Potatoes are also enjoyed at weddings, holiday dinners, and any event where a large group of people gathers. It is a versatile dish that transcends its somber origins.

4. The dish has grown in popularity outside of the U.S., with people from other countries adopting their own versions, particularly in the context of potlucks and gatherings. It is now recognized as an American comfort food that appeals to people worldwide.