Pin it This comforting casserole brings together everything Midwestern funeral potatoes are cherished for creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and a crispy cornflake topping plus a tangy kick from dill pickles and ranch. It is the kind of dish people ask for seconds of and always sneak a recipe card home.
I started making this pickle ranch version for a family potluck as a tongue in cheek twist and now everyone expects the briny punch at every gathering. My crew thought I was wild for adding pickles but now it is genuinely requested even by the most traditional potato lovers. There is something about that savory creamy combo with a little sparkle from the pickle juice that makes this version disappear first at every party.
Ingredients
- Frozen shredded hash browns: make this dish easy to assemble while giving the perfect tender texture seek out quality brands with just potatoes and no additives
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: brings tangy richness and melts beautifully aged cheddar gives best flavor
- Sour cream: packs in creamy body with a little tang I go for full fat for best texture
- Condensed cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian swap: creates a luscious saucy base check for low sodium and fewer additives if desired
- Unsalted butter: supports the creamy flavor and ensures the topping gets perfectly golden pick the freshest butter for best taste
- Dill pickles finely chopped: add a lively crunch and unmistakable tang try to use crisp garlicky deli style pickles
- Pickle juice: brightens and balances the richness from the dairy and cheese
- Ranch dressing mix: adds herby zip and classic Midwest flavor I like using a homemade style for less salt
- Chopped fresh dill: optional but boosts the fresh herby punch if available
- Yellow onion finely diced: gives mild sweet savor once baked look for a firm unblemished onion
- Garlic powder: quietly boosts flavor without competing with the ranch
- Black pepper: adds subtle heat freshly cracked is best
- Kosher salt: seasons the base and balances the briny elements
- Cornflakes for topping: create that signature crunch crush just before using to retain texture
- More unsalted butter: brings the topping together and covers the potatoes in comforting flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless
- Mix the Filling:
- In the largest mixing bowl you have stir together thawed hash browns shredded cheddar sour cream condensed soup melted butter chopped pickles pickle juice ranch mix diced onion garlic powder black pepper kosher salt and optional fresh dill Work slowly to ensure the mixture gets thoroughly combined so each bite is flavorful
- Spread into Dish:
- Spoon the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish smoothing the top into an even layer with a spatula or back of a spoon This step is key for a uniform bake and beautiful presentation
- Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
- In a separate bowl toss the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter Stir to coat every flake this is where the magic crispy top happens
- Add Topping:
- Scatter the buttery cornflakes in an even blanket over the potato mixture making sure every corner gets some crispy coverage
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Slide the dish onto the center rack Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until you see the edges bubbling and the topping turns a deep golden brown Resist peeking too often for the most even browning
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool on a rack for about 10 minutes The wait helps everything set for those ideal spoonfuls that hold together but are still creamy inside Serve piping hot
Pin it Fresh dill always transports me back to my grandma's kitchen where she insisted it must be freshly picked from the garden My kids now help sprinkle dill over the dish just before serving and it is become a sweet family ceremony
Storage Tips
Funeral potatoes store beautifully Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to four days If making ahead assemble everything except the topping cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
Cream of mushroom soup or a plant based substitute creates a vegetarian friendly version For more tang mix in a little chopped pickled jalapeno If you do not have cornflakes try crushed butter crackers or panko for a different crunch
Serving Suggestions
Serve this as a hearty side with roast meats glazed ham baked chicken or as a vegetarian main with a vibrant salad It pairs especially well with tangy slaws and steamed green beans
Cultural Roots
Potato casseroles like this have deep roots at community gatherings where comfort and sharing are the core In the Midwest funeral potatoes are synonymous with support and togetherness and every family has their own secret twist
Pin it This dish is sure to please at any gathering and sparks conversation every time Anyone who enjoys comforting casseroles with a kick will come home asking for seconds.
Common Questions
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes and use them, though be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
- → What does pickle ranch add to the dish?
Pickle ranch brings tangy brightness and herby savory notes that complement the creamy cheese and potatoes.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free cream soup and cornflakes or use panko labeled gluten-free for suitable alternatives.
- → Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Swap the chicken soup for cream of mushroom and check ranch mix and cornflakes labels for vegetarian ingredients.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours before, refrigerate, and add the topping just prior to baking for best texture.
- → What alternative toppings work well?
Panko breadcrumbs, potato chips, or crushed Ritz crackers can provide a different crunchy finish if preferred.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh salad, steamed greens, or classic roast meats are delicious partners for the creamy, tangy casserole.