Cheesy Potatoes (Funeral Potatoes)
Making cheesy potatoes can be a great addition to any meal. Known as Funeral Potatoes in some regions, this creamy, cheesy dish will be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, holidays, and potlucks. While traditionally rich in calories and fats, we can modify this dish to create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor, making it suitable for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet or lose weight.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
One reason you will love this cheesy potato recipe is how simple it is to prepare. It’s a quick meal prep dish that you can whip up in no time. The ingredients are easy to find, and you can make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week. Plus, with some healthier options available, it becomes a great dish for weight loss when made with low-calorie ingredients. You can even turn it into a high-protein meal, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier.
HOW TO MAKE Cheesy Potatoes
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Air fryer (optional)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups of diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt (for a healthier twist)
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup (or a low-sodium version)
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or low-fat cheese)
- 1 cup of cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1/2 cup of green onions (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, Greek yogurt, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper.
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Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
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For a crunchy topping, sprinkle cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs over the cheese.
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Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. If using an air fryer, cook for about 20-25 minutes, checking to ensure it doesn’t burn.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Cheesy Potatoes
Cheesy potatoes can be served as a hearty side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or baked fish to create a balanced meal. For portion control, serve the cheesy potatoes in small bowls or on smaller plates to help keep servings in check. This will also help anyone looking for a lighter option.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Cheesy Potatoes
These cheesy potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make a large batch, consider freezing individual portions. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Serve cheesy potatoes with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple salad topped with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil will add brightness and nutrients. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables for added fiber and color.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier Version: Substitute regular cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese, or use a vegan cheese option to reduce calories and fat. You can also use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb option.
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High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey to the potato mixture for extra protein. For a low-carb version, replace the potatoes with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
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Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version: Use your air fryer to cook a smaller batch, which gives you a crispy outer layer while keeping it creamy inside. Bake it in the oven for a family-style version that can serve many.
FAQs
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Can I make this dish diabetic-friendly?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soup and include a higher ratio of veggies to the potatoes to make it more diabetic-friendly. -
How can I store leftover cheesy potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze portions for long-term storage. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional cornflakes. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cheesy Potatoes
To save time during a busy week, consider prepping these cheesy potatoes ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it well, and place it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven or air fryer for a convenient and comforting meal. This make-ahead tip is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!
By adopting a few healthier alternatives, this cheesy potatoes dish can still deliver the creamy, cheesy goodness you love without weighing you down. Whether it’s a festive occasion or just a casual family meal, this dish can easily fit into your healthy lifestyle. Enjoy making this tasty and satisfying dish, knowing you’re choosing a lighter option that can help with meal prep and maintain a balanced diet!
Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, Greek yogurt, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs over the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. If using an air fryer, cook for about 20-25 minutes, checking to ensure it doesn't burn.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.