Funeral potatoes are a classic dish that originated in Utah and have since become popular throughout the western United States.
Traditionally served at funerals, potlucks, or family gatherings. They have a creamy, comforting flavor that pairs well with many side dishes. Here is a guide to some of the best side dishes to serve with funeral potatoes that will heighten their flavor.
What are Funeral potatoes? What does a funeral potato taste like?
Funeral potatoes, also known as cheesy potato casserole or cheesy potato bake, are a classic comfort food dish in the American West.
A funeral potato consists of shredded potatoes, lots of cheese and butter, cream of chicken soup, and cornflakes crumbs for the topping.
The result is a creamy blend of savory flavors and a crunchy topping. The combination of the ingredients makes this potato casserole both savory and indulgent.
Funeral potatoes taste like a hearty and delicious blend of crispy potatoes topped with creamy melted cheese. It can be served as either a side dish or as an entree in itself – making them perfect for any occasion.
What are funeral potatoes made of?
The crisp potato dish is made of potatoes (either frozen or fresh), butter, cream soups, and cheese.
Usually, two types of cheese are used—cheddar cheese and cornflake-type cereal to give the dish a pleasant crunch.
In addition to the main ingredients, it may also be flavored with diced onions, garlic powder, or onion powder.
Those who love their potato dish extra cheesy can add more shredded cheddar cheese over the top after it is baked.
Funeral potatoes make for a great side dish with any meal; however, they are especially comforting when served in remembrance with friends or family after a funeral.
10 Best Dishes to serve with Funeral Potatoes
1. Salads
Salads are always a great choice for any meal, and they’re especially good when served alongside funeral potatoes.
Consider adding some crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, celery, and peppers to the mix for extra texture.
Use spinach or romaine lettuce as your base and top it off with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, carrots, or whatever else you like.
For something unique, try adding some dried cranberries or apples for sweetness. For additional crunchiness, you can also put some nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.
For an extra kick of flavor and texture, sprinkle some sunflower seeds or crunchy croutons over the top of your salad before serving.
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2. Roasted Rosemary Chicken
Roasted Rosemary Chicken paired with funeral potatoes makes for a delicious meal.
The roasted chicken can be seasoned with rosemary, garlic, thyme, and plenty of salt and pepper. As the chicken bakes are in the oven, prepare your favorite version of funeral potatoes.
This comforting side dish uses chopped onions, cheese, and butter to create an irresistibly creamy texture. After cooking both parts of the dish, layer the funeral potatoes onto a plate and top each serving with roasted rosemary chicken.
With its simple flavors and easy preparation, this tasty pairing will surely please everyone at your dinner table!
3. Grains
Grains like quinoa or wild rice can bring out the flavors of funeral potatoes while providing an interesting texture contrast that will keep your guests interested.
If you want to make your grain dish stand out even more, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to brighten up the flavors.
And don’t forget about sweet items like raisins or dried cranberries!
4. Funeral potatoes with Chicken
Serving chicken with funeral potatoes is a delightful treat for anyone.
Funeral potatoes are a popular side dish that combines melted cheese, onions, and butter to make a creamy, flavorful mashed potato dish.
The sweetness of the cheese and onion pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of cooked chicken.
To spice things up even more, try adding garlic powder, paprika, or any other herbs that you prefer.
For a real baked treat, top off your funeral potatoes with some crushed potato chips before baking in the oven. Chicken and funeral potatoes are sure to be a hit — no one will be able to resist this comforting classic meal!
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5. Vegetables
Vegetables are always a great side dish option when served with funeral potatoes.
Try roasting Brussels sprouts in olive oil and garlic or sautéed green beans in butter and herbs for an added level of flavor complexity.
If you want something heartier but still healthy, consider making roasted cauliflower with Parmesan cheese and garlic cloves for an amazing savory experience.
6. Baked Beans
Baked beans add a great flavor to any meal and pair perfectly with funeral potatoes.
Whether you opt for traditional baked beans or make your own version using your favorite spices and ingredients, this is an easy way to add extra protein and fiber to the meal.
7. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is another great accompaniment to funeral potatoes because it brings out the cheesy flavor in the dish while adding its own unique taste to the mix.
Simply buy pre-made garlic bread from your local store or make your own by brushing melted butter over slices of Italian bread and sprinkling minced garlic over the top before baking in the oven until golden brown.
8. Finger foods
Funeral potatoes are a beloved dish for many American gatherings, particularly family events such as funerals and reunions. To make your funeral potato meal into a complete party or buffet spread, consider serving some finger food options.
Finger foods are easy to assemble because they require minimal preparation and cooking effort and can be made the night before.
Consider bite-sized quiches, deviled eggs, egg rolls, chicken satay, stuffed mushrooms, and mini sandwiches.
For those who have dietary restrictions, you can also whip up vegetarian alternatives such as hummus with pita chips.
With just a few finger-food additions to typical funeral potato dishes, you can easily create a memorable dining experience for all of your guests.
9. Honey Garlic Salmon
Honey Garlic Salmon with funeral potatoes is an easy, delicious crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This harmonious combination of sweet and savory flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
Enjoy the subtle sweetness and delicate texture of the salmon with the crunchiness and warmth of the funeral potatoes.
You can also adjust this recipe to your own taste, using whichever seasoning you choose.
Serve it up at outdoor barbeques or as a comforting side dish during a family meal. Either way, Honey Garlic Salmon with funeral potatoes never fails to impress.
Read Here: what to serve with teriyaki salmon
10. Fried Pork Chops
When it comes to creating a flavorful, delicious meal for your family and friends, serving Fried Pork Chops the best meat served with Funeral Potatoes is the way to go.
The pork chops offer a savory flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture of the potatoes, making them an ideal combination.
Not only will the meal be incredibly delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. Simply follow steps such as seasoning your pork chops and preparing your potatoes and oils for frying before pan-frying everything together until golden brown.
Last but not least, you can easily adjust seasonings such as herbs and spices for added flavors to make your own unique dish sure to delight at any gathering!
Do you really need side dishes to pair up with Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes—what an unusual name for a dish! It may sound daunting, but this is actually one of the most popular casseroles around.
It is full of awesome cheesy, savory flavors that are sure to make any taste buds happy. But do you really need to pair this dish up with side dishes?
It definitely won’t hurt; after all, variety is the spice of life! However, it’s worth considering if Funeral Potatoes are substantial enough to be a stand-alone meal.
Read Also: Great Vegetarian Sides to Serve with Roasted Potatoes
Oftentimes they contain ground beef and other potatoes, making them filling as an entree.
Bottom line: serve whatever sides you want with these potatoes and enjoy the savory deliciousness no matter what your plate looks like!
What are the best flavors to go with Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes are a delicious addition to any meal, loved by people of all ages.
The best flavors to bring out the savory and creamy potatoes are cheddar cheese, garlic powder, bacon, mushrooms, chives, onion powder, and sour cream.
With those seven flavors in your dish, it will become an irresistible delight that is sure to please everyone!