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Funeral potatoes
Funeral potatoes
Funeral potatoes
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from Wikipedia
Funeral potatoes
TypeHotdish or casserole
Place of originUnited States
Region or stateIntermountain West, Midwest
Main ingredientsHash browns or cubed potatoes, cheese (cheddar or Parmesan), onions, cream soup (chicken, mushroom, or celery) or cream sauce, sour cream, butter, corn flakes or crushed potato chips
  •   Media: Funeral potatoes

Funeral potatoes is a potato-based hotdish or casserole, similar to au gratin potatoes, popular in the American Intermountain West and Midwest. It is called "funeral" potatoes because it is commonly served as a side dish during traditional after-funeral dinners, but it is also served at potlucks and other social gatherings, sometimes under different names.

The dish has been associated with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) because of its popularity among members of the church.

History

[edit]

According to Epicurious, the dish "emerged in Utah’s Mormon community during the late 19th century".[1] According to NPR, the LDS Relief Society served the dish for organization functions, and it spread within the community.[2] Recipes can be found in multiple Relief Society cookbooks dating to the early 20th century.[3] By the mid-20th century recipes called for convenience foods.[4]

Because of its reliance on calorie-laden inexpensive convenience foods often stored by members of the church, the dish could be produced quickly, cheaply, and in large amounts, making it a common choice for occasions where large numbers were expected.[2][5] It is common for families to store a casserole dish of funeral potatoes in order to have it on hand if needed.[6]

Ingredients

[edit]
Prepared funeral potatoes with a cornflake topping

The dish is similar to potatoes gratin or au gratin potatoes.[7]

The dish usually consists of hash browns or cubed potatoes, cheese (cheddar or Parmesan), onions, cream soup (chicken, mushroom, or celery) or a cream sauce, sour cream, and a topping of butter with corn flakes or crushed crackers or potato chips.[8][9] Ingredients in some variations include cubed baked ham, frozen peas, or broccoli florets.[citation needed]

Popularity

[edit]

The dish is commonly served at social occasions and potlucks and in certain areas is an expected inclusion at funeral receptions in the Jell-O Belt.[6][9][10][7] It is also popular as a side dish at other holiday gatherings in certain areas.[10] The dish is most commonly known in the American Intermountain West and Midwest.[11] A similar dish is known in the American South.[3]

The dish has sometimes been associated with the LDS Church, and with the state of Utah in general, because of its popularity among members of the church.[12][8][10][11] During the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, one of the souvenir collector pins featured a depiction of funeral potatoes.[13][14][2]

Other names

[edit]

In Texas the dish is known as Texas potatoes.[1] It is also known as Mormon funeral potatoes,[11] or Relief Society Potatoes.[15] The dish, or similar casseroles, is also known by other names.[16][9] In Iowa they are known as party potatoes.[4]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Funeral potatoes

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Funeral potatoes are a creamy, cheesy dish originating from the culinary traditions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), typically made with frozen or cubed potatoes, shredded , , cream of chicken or mushroom soup, and a crunchy topping of crushed cornflakes or potato chips, baked until golden and bubbly. The dish likely emerged in the mid-20th century within Utah's Mormon communities, though its exact inventor remains unknown; it is widely attributed to the creativity of LDS Relief Society members, the church's women's organization, who prepared it as an easy, comforting meal for communal events. The name "funeral potatoes" derives from its longstanding role in post-funeral "mercy meals" provided to grieving families, a practice where church members deliver ready-to-eat dishes to support those in mourning, with the term appearing in print as early as the . Beyond funerals, funeral potatoes have become a versatile staple at LDS potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings across the , particularly in , where they symbolize communal care and Midwestern-influenced adapted to pioneer-era resourcefulness. Variations abound, incorporating additions like onions, green onions, , or peas, while maintaining the core indulgent, carb-heavy profile that makes it a crowd-pleaser; its cultural prominence is evident in features like a commemorative pin and competitions.

History and Origins

Early Development

Funeral potatoes emerged in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s as part of a broader trend toward convenience-based casseroles, with the modern form facilitated by the introduction of frozen hash brown potatoes and canned cream soups. Although similar potato-cheese casseroles appeared in American cookbooks as early as the 1920s, the dish's contemporary iteration evolved from these earlier preparations. Frozen hash browns, produced by Ore-Ida since 1952 to utilize potato crops, provided a quick, pre-shredded base that simplified preparation for busy households. Similarly, condensed cream soups from Campbell's, available since the late 19th century but increasingly marketed for casserole recipes in the post-World War II era, served as an easy binding agent. These innovations aligned with the era's emphasis on efficient, economical cooking, allowing the dish to evolve from traditional potato preparations into a scalable comfort food suitable for communal gatherings. The rise of funeral potatoes was influenced by post-World War II movements and the proliferation of community cookbooks, which promoted as versatile, make-ahead dishes for large groups. Home economists, often featured in women's magazines and extension services, advocated for "one-dish meals" that combined pantry staples with minimal effort, reflecting the era's suburban expansion and working women's needs. Church and community cookbooks, including those from women's auxiliaries, played a key role in disseminating simple casserole recipes, emphasizing thrift and scalability. These publications highlighted the dish's practicality for potlucks and family events, drawing on American traditions of hearty, potato-centric sides. The first documented recipes resembling funeral potatoes appear in mid-1950s community cookbooks associated with religious women's groups, such as a 1957 publication from that featured "Scalloped Potatoes Supreme"—a basic combination of sliced potatoes, cheese, white sauce or , onions, and peppers, baked until bubbly. In the U.S., similar early formulations in cookbooks from the 1950s focused on straightforward potato-cheese-soup mixtures, often without the later cornflake topping, prioritizing ease over embellishment. These recipes evolved from general American potato casseroles, like simplified versions of au potatoes, adapting European influences to modern convenience ingredients for broader appeal.

Role in Mormon Culture

Funeral potatoes became closely associated with the , the women's organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the mid-20th century, when members began preparing the dish for post-funeral luncheons to provide comfort and support to grieving families. This practice aligned with the 's emphasis on charitable service, making the a practical choice due to its ease of preparation in large quantities and ability to be transported easily to church buildings or homes. The name "funeral potatoes" originated from this frequent service at Mormon funerals, where the dish served as a comforting side that symbolized communal care and solidarity during times of loss. By the , the term had become widely recognized within Latter-day Saint communities, with printed mentions appearing as early as that decade, reflecting its entrenched role in mourning traditions. Beyond funerals, funeral potatoes play a prominent role in Utah-based Latter-day Saint gatherings, such as potlucks, ward dinners, and missionary farewells, where they are often prepared in large batches to feed congregations. In these contexts, the dish appears with high frequency, sometimes in multiple variations at a single event, underscoring its status as an essential in church social life. Historical anecdotes highlight its cultural significance, including recipes featured in articles and LDS cookbooks from the 1970s onward, which popularized it as a "Mormon staple." In a 2010 General Conference address, Elder of the Apostles referenced the dish affectionately, noting, "We smile sometimes about our sisters’ stories—you know, green , quilts, and funeral potatoes. But my family has been the grateful recipient of each of those items at one time or another—and in one case, the quilt and the funeral potatoes on the same day," illustrating its role in everyday acts of kindness.

Culinary Composition

Key Ingredients

The core of funeral potatoes lies in its simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients that create a creamy, hearty . The primary base consists of approximately 2 pounds of frozen hash brown potatoes or cubed potatoes, which provide the starchy, neutral foundation essential for absorbing the rich flavors while maintaining a tender texture upon . Shredded , typically around 2 cups, is stirred into the mixture to deliver a sharp, melty creaminess that binds the dish and enhances its comforting appeal. For the binding element, recipes commonly include 1 to 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) of condensed cream of along with 1 to 2 cups of , which create a velvety that coats the potatoes and adds subtle savory depth; the canned , in particular, reflects mid-20th-century cooking trends by offering quick preparation without sacrificing cohesion. Supporting ingredients include diced onions (about ½ cup) for mild aromatic flavor, ½ cup of (often used in the mixture and for the onions), along with to season. The iconic topping provides a contrasting crunch: typically 1 to 3 cups of crushed cornflakes mixed with ¼ to ½ cup of melted , which bakes to a golden, crispy layer that balances the soft interior and adds textural interest. A typical serving of funeral potatoes yields approximately 300 to 400 calories, underscoring its status as a rich, indulgent .

Preparation Process

The preparation of funeral potatoes is straightforward, requiring minimal advanced skills and allowing for easy scaling to feed large groups, such as at community gatherings. The dish typically serves 10-12 people when prepared in a standard 9x13-inch dish, with preparation time estimated at 15-20 minutes and time of about 1 hour. Basic equipment includes a large mixing bowl, a skillet for , a 9x13-inch dish, and an preheated to 350°F (175°C). Begin by thawing one 32-ounce bag of frozen hash brown potatoes if using frozen, ensuring they are fully drained to prevent excess moisture. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté ½ cup finely chopped onion in 2-3 tablespoons of butter until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes; this step adds subtle flavor without overpowering the dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, one 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, 2 cups sour cream, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon onion powder (or other seasonings to taste, referencing classic ratios from ingredient lists). Gently fold in the hash browns until evenly coated, avoiding overmixing to maintain a light texture. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. For the topping, crush 2 cups cornflakes and toss with ¼ cup melted , then sprinkle over the potato mixture to form a crispy crust. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, until the edges are bubbly, the center is hot, and the topping is golden brown. For large batches, such as doubling the recipe for church events, use multiple 9x13-inch dishes or a larger pan, adjusting bake time by 5-10 minutes if needed for even cooking. This dish lends itself to make-ahead preparation: assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate without the topping, adding the cornflake layer just before baking to ensure crispness. Common pitfalls include sogginess from underbaked toppings or excess liquid from undrained potatoes; to avoid these, bake until fully golden and always thaw and pat dry the thoroughly.

Cultural Impact

Popularity and Regional Spread

Funeral potatoes gained significant national attention during the in , where the dish was featured on commemorative pins and highlighted in media coverage as a quintessential , boosting its visibility through and international exposure. This period marked a surge in popularity from the 1980s onward, as Utah's growing profile led to recipes appearing in mainstream publications; for instance, variations were included in cookbooks and food blogs like Food52 and by the , transitioning the from a regional staple to a broader American favorite. The dish maintains strongholds in and , where it remains a fixture at community gatherings, while spreading to Midwestern states like and through shared traditions and Mormon migration patterns. In , it evolved into a variation known as "Texas potatoes," adopted by families in the 1970s and now essential for holidays like , reflecting its adaptation in southern U.S. regions beyond its Mormon cultural roots. Overall, funeral potatoes have permeated general American , valued for their ease and crowd-pleasing appeal across diverse events. In modern LDS communities, funeral potatoes are prepared in large quantities for events, underscoring their role as a communal essential. The dish has appeared in pop culture, including food trucks like City's Cook of Mormon since 2017 and references in media such as a 2024 ABC4 segment where the Star Trek: The Next Generation cast advocated for its nationwide export. Commercially, pre-made versions are available at grocers like Smith's Marketplace and Harmon's, which offer prepared cheesy potato casseroles, while brands under , including , provide recipe-based kits using frozen ; additionally, Augason Farms sells dehydrated emergency pouches for long-term storage.

Social and Symbolic Role

Funeral potatoes embody core Mormon values of service and hospitality, particularly through the efforts of the , the women's organization within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which traditionally prepares and delivers the dish to grieving families as a practical way to provide nourishment without adding to their burden during . This act of communal support symbolizes shared and solidarity, transforming a simple into a gesture of that reinforces bonds in times of loss. Beyond funerals, the dish extends to other gatherings such as church potlucks, Christmas dinners, Easter celebrations, and even weddings, where it serves as a versatile offering that fosters togetherness and reflects the church's emphasis on mutual aid. In relief efforts, its use of shelf-stable ingredients aligns with Latter-day Saint principles of preparedness, making it a staple in community responses to hardships, including disaster scenarios promoted through instant-mix versions for quick assembly. As a quintessential , funeral potatoes offer psychological solace during by delivering warmth, familiarity, and caloric reassurance, helping families process loss through the ritual of shared meals that evoke home and stability. Anecdotes from communities highlight how its creamy, cheesy profile provides emotional grounding, allowing mourners to connect over rather than isolation. The dish has evolved to promote inclusivity, with adaptations appearing at non-Mormon events across and the , where it symbolizes broader Midwestern and Utahan home-cooking identity rather than strictly religious affiliation. Its widespread appeal in these secular contexts underscores a cultural embrace that transcends denominational lines while retaining positive associations with communal care.

Names and Variations

Alternative Names

Funeral potatoes are known by several alternative names that reflect their cultural and regional associations, particularly within Latter-day Saint (LDS) communities and broader American traditions. Primary alternatives include "cheesy potatoes," emphasizing the dish's hallmark melted cheese topping; "hash brown casserole," highlighting the use of frozen as the base; "Mormon funeral potatoes," which explicitly ties the name to LDS origins; and " potatoes," referencing the LDS women's organization that traditionally prepares and serves the dish at community events. In regional contexts, variations emerge to adapt the name to local preferences or to distance it from somber connotations. In the Southern U.S., particularly , it is often called "Texas potatoes," a term that underscores its popularity at holiday gatherings and potlucks beyond funeral settings. The "funeral" name derives from the dish's longstanding role in post-funeral luncheons organized by the in LDS culture, where it became a staple starting in the mid-20th century, though the term itself first appeared in print in the 1990s. To soften the morbidity of the original name in secular or non-LDS settings, alternatives like "party potatoes" have gained traction, allowing the recipe to appear in everyday cookbooks and holiday menus without evoking death. Usage of these names varies by context and geography; for instance, "funeral potatoes" remains the preferred term in media and LDS publications, evoking strong cultural associations, while generic labels such as "cheesy potatoes" or "hash brown casserole" dominate in national recipe sources and non-Mormon regions to broaden appeal.

Recipe Variations

Funeral potatoes have evolved with various adaptations that modify the classic to suit different tastes, textures, and dietary requirements. Topping alternatives often replace the traditional crushed cornflakes to alter the crunchy element; for example, panko breadcrumbs provide a finer, lighter crisp, while crushed impart a buttery richness. Crushed potato chips, particularly kettle-cooked varieties, offer a saltier and more substantial crunch, and plain or cheese-flavored crackers serve as straightforward substitutes for those seeking simplicity. chips can introduce a subtle Southwestern flair to the topping. The base of the dish, typically frozen , can be swapped for varied textures or to accommodate availability. Tater tots create a softer, more uniform consistency compared to shredded or diced , appealing to those who prefer a tot-based . Fresh russet potatoes, boiled and then grated or cubed, offer a homemade alternative to frozen options, providing better control over freshness. For dietary restrictions, gluten-free condensed soups, such as those certified for celiac safety, replace standard cream soups while preserving the creamy binding. Flavor enhancements allow for personalization, often incorporating add-ins for depth or heat. Chopped add a fresh, mild oniony note, while cooked bits introduce a smoky savoriness. Sliced jalapeños provide a spicy kick, transforming the dish into a bolder version suitable for casual gatherings. Vegetarian adaptations commonly substitute for cream of chicken, eliminating animal-derived ingredients in the base without compromising creaminess. Modern innovations reflect convenience and inclusivity trends from the onward, with slow-cooker methods gaining popularity for their set-it-and-forget-it ease during potlucks or holidays. These adaptations layer ingredients directly in the crockpot, cooking low and slow for 3 to 4 hours to meld flavors effortlessly. Gourmet upgrades, such as incorporating nutty alongside cheddar, elevate the dish for more refined occasions, as noted in updated recipe collections. Vegan variations employ plant-based cheese substitutes and non-dairy , ensuring accessibility for plant-forward diets while retaining the comforting essence.

References

  1. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/what-are-funeral-potatoes/
  2. https://www.foodandwine.com/travel/mormon-funeral-potatoes-where-to-eat
  3. https://www.deseret.com/faith/2022/5/24/23139784/funeral-potatoes-a-history-of-the-latter-day-saint-staple-utah-food-recipes-cheese-cornflakes/
  4. https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2018/05/30/613017175/if-it-s-the-end-of-the-world-make-sure-funeral-potatoes-are-on-the-table
  5. https://www.tastingtable.com/1170875/the-hazy-origin-of-hash-browns/
  6. https://daily.jstor.org/the-evolution-of-convenience-food-inamerica/
  7. https://passionateomnivore.wordpress.com/2011/09/15/casserole-the-eternal-crowd-pleaser/
  8. https://www.klove.com/faith/news/fun-unusual/the-casserole-an-american-classic-46421
  9. https://www.deseret.com/2022/9/30/23367088/funeral-potatoes-recipe-relief-society/
  10. https://www.ldsliving.com/the-delicious-cheesy-history-of-funeral-potatoes-and-latter-day-saints/s/10928
  11. https://www.deseret.com/2022/9/4/23332115/why-do-latter-day-saints-make-funeral-potatoes/
  12. https://www.deseret.com/23645301/what-are-funeral-potatoes/
  13. https://www.deseret.com/2022/7/22/23273808/the-most-correct-guide-to-making-cheesy-funeral-potatoes-for-pioneer-day/
  14. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2010/11/saturday-morning-session/because-of-your-faith?lang=eng
  15. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/270373/basic-funeral-potatoes/
  16. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/funeral-potatoes-3268651
  17. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/270372/funeral-potatoes-hash-brown-casserole/
  18. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/276505/grandmas-hash-brown-casserole/
  19. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/284695/moms-funeral-potatoes/
  20. https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/funeral-potatoes/
  21. https://lilluna.com/funeral-potatoes/
  22. https://www.vice.com/en/article/a-lot-of-people-are-creeped-out-by-walmarts-ad-for-funeral-potatoes/
  23. https://food52.com/story/21746-utah-funeral-potatoes
  24. https://www.wsj.com/articles/utahs-funeral-potatoes-a-classic-cheesy-casserole-to-enjoy-while-youre-still-alive-1511361725
  25. https://www.eastidahonews.com/2018/04/walmarts-funeral-potatoes-are-confusing-everyone-on-the-internet/
  26. https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/arts-culture/2018-04-06/internet-scratching-head-over-idaho-and-utah-staple-funeral-potatoes
  27. https://www.delish.com/food/a65279424/what-are-midwestern-funeral-potatoes/
  28. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes-menus/thanksgiving-needs-texas-potatoes
  29. https://www.abc4.com/news/wasatch-front/star-trek-cast-potatoes-utah/
  30. https://sportsradio977.com/mormons-thrilled-grocery-store-selling-exciting-item-in-utah/
  31. https://www.harmonsgrocery.com/class/pioneer-favorites-and-country-style-ribs-2/
  32. https://www.kraftheinz.com/ore-ida/recipes/505223-easy-cheddar-funeral-potatoes
  33. https://www.augasonfarms.com
  34. https://www.atlasobscura.com/foods/mormon-funeral-potatoes
  35. https://saltlakemagazine.com/utah-funeral-potatoes/
  36. https://www.southernliving.com/funeral-potatoes-8721726
  37. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/funeral-potatoes-texas-potatoes
  38. https://www.dictionary.com/e/pop-culture/funeral-potatoes/
  39. https://www.foodrepublic.com/1683793/funeral-potatoes-name-origin/
  40. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/282579/slow-cooker-funeral-potatoes/
  41. https://lilluna.com/tater-tot-casserole-recipe/
  42. https://www.thekitchn.com/funeral-potatoes-recipe-23649980
  43. https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/funeral-potatoes/
  44. https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/quick-easy-au-gratin-potatoes/
  45. https://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/funeral-potatoes/
  46. https://namelymarly.com/vegan-funeral-potatoes/
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