Funeral Casserole
A creamy, comforting casserole combining chicken, soups, and crunchy crackers, topped with poppy seeds—perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Add cooked chicken, water chestnuts or celery, and minced onion; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Stir crushed Ritz crackers into melted butter and spread over the casserole.
- Sprinkle the top with poppy seed.
- Bake for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add more crushed Ritz crackers or mix in some grated Parmesan. You can also enhance the flavor by incorporating herbs like thyme or parsley. If you have leftovers, they can be used in a delicious Easy And Fast Chicken Pot Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting side, serve with homemade bread or a simple quiche like Quiche Elegant. You can also offer a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, but the topping may lose some crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Funeral Casserole contains roughly 1266 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of soup?
Yes, you can experiment with different soups, such as cream of celery or even a cheddar cheese soup for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste and texture of the casserole, so choose options that complement the chicken well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the Ritz cracker topping right before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or gatherings, allowing the flavors to meld overnight.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a great quick meal option on busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).