Pirates Pantry

Plundering the seven seas for grub worth preserving

Classic Funeral Potatoes with Crunchy Cornflake Topping

side-dishcasserolebakedmake-aheadpotluckcomfort-foodamerican

Prep
20 min
Cook
45 min
Total
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8

For the Cheesy Potato Base

Sautéed onions and homemade sauce give this dish depth—don't skip the stovetop step, even in rough seas.

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 to taste kosher salt
  • 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 lb frozen hash browns, defrosted
  • 1 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Sauté chopped onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour over onions and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Whisk in milk and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cheese sauce with defrosted hash browns and sour cream. Mix gently and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Transfer mixture to a buttered large casserole dish.

Prep: 15 min • Cook: 10 min • Wait: No time

For the Crunchy Cornflake Topping

A golden crust fit for a captain's wake—crushed cereal adds texture and charm.

Ingredients

  • 5 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes
  • 1 as needed additional shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for topping
  • 2 teaspoons chopped chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, stir melted butter into crushed cornflakes until evenly coated.
  2. Spread topping over potato mixture in casserole dish.
  3. Sprinkle with additional shredded cheese.
  4. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  5. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

Prep: 5 min • Cook: 35 min • Wait: No time

Notes

A hearty dish beloved across ports and provinces—these potatoes be rich, creamy, and crowned with a crunch. Perfect for gatherings, galley feasts, or quiet nights below deck. Keeps well in the ship’s stores for up to 3 days. Reheat uncovered at 350°F until warmed through.