I Am Homesteader: Cheesy Potato Casserole (a.k.a. Funeral Potatoes)

Sometimes you're just in the mood for potatoes.  Even if those potatoes are commonly served at...funerals.  Now, I haven't been to a ton of funerals, and I've never seen these served, but I think they really are a fantastic side dish for a large group.  They're not that hard to make, are really cheesy and delicious, and I have never been angry about a buttery cornflake topping.  I think these would also work at Thanksgiving if you're sick of mashed potatoes.

Cheesy Potato Casserole (a.k.a. Funeral Potatoes)
Adapted from I Am Homesteader blog

¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, divided use

½ medium onion, chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried mustard
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1½ cups sour cream

1 (32-ounce) bag frozen cubed/diced hash browns, thawed
3 cups corn flakes

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, butter, shredded cheese, and sour cream. Mix well and set aside.

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup (½ stick) butter.  Add onion and cook until translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute.  Add flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and dry mustard. Cook another minute.  Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth.  Slowly add chicken broth, whisking until thickened.  Reduce heat to low, then add in another ¼ cup (½ stick) butter, the shredded cheese, and the sour cream.  Continue to stir the mixture until the butter is completely melted and incorporated.  Add the potatoes and mix just to combine.  Pour the sauce and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.

In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining ¼ cup (½ stick) butter.  Add corn flakes and toss to coat, crushing large chips.  Sprinkle the cornflakes mixture on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.

Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.  Remove from oven. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Makes 12 servings