Funeral potatoes—that creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting casserole—are a staple at many potlucks and gatherings, especially those with a comforting, home-style feel. But what pairs best with this rich and decadent side dish? The answer depends on your overall menu goals, but we've got some delicious suggestions to help you create a balanced and memorable meal.
Balancing the Richness of Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes are inherently rich and filling, thanks to their creamy base, often potatoes, cheese, and a buttery topping. Therefore, your other dishes should offer a balance to avoid an overly heavy meal. Consider these factors when choosing your accompaniments:
- Lightness and Brightness: Counter the richness with lighter, brighter dishes. Think fresh salads, vibrant vegetables, or something with a citrusy element.
- Texture Contrast: Funeral potatoes are soft and creamy. Adding dishes with contrasting textures, like crispy roasted vegetables or a crunchy salad, can create a more interesting and enjoyable eating experience.
- Flavor Variety: While cheesy and comforting, funeral potatoes don't offer a wide range of flavors. Pairing them with dishes offering contrasting tastes, such as something tangy or herbaceous, can add complexity to the meal.
Delicious Side Dish Pairings for Funeral Potatoes
Here are some excellent choices to complement your funeral potatoes:
Lighter Options:
- Green Salad with a Light Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a light Italian dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes. Adding some crunchy croutons or toasted nuts provides a pleasing textural element.
- Simple Green Beans: Steamed or lightly sautéed green beans provide a simple, healthy, and visually appealing contrast.
- Asparagus with Lemon: Roasted or grilled asparagus with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice offers a bright, slightly bitter counterpoint to the cheesy potatoes.
Heartier Options:
- Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Classic comfort food choices that pair wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy flavors of funeral potatoes. The savory meat provides a nice contrast in texture and taste.
- Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork: A tender and flavorful pulled pork offers a more casual, yet satisfying pairing, particularly if you're serving a larger group.
- Ham: A glazed ham, whether baked or spiral-sliced, offers a sweet and savory counterpoint to the potatoes’ richness.
Completing the Meal:
Beyond side dishes, consider these additions to round out your meal:
- Bread: A crusty bread or rolls can help soak up the delicious creamy sauce from the potatoes.
- Dessert: A lighter dessert, such as fruit salad or a simple ice cream, provides a refreshing end to a potentially rich meal.
Planning Your Menu: Considerations
When planning your menu, consider the overall occasion. Is it a casual potluck or a more formal gathering? The formality of the event will influence your dish choices. For a casual gathering, you might opt for simpler sides. For a more formal occasion, you might choose more refined accompaniments.
No matter your chosen pairings, remember the key is balance. By carefully considering textures, flavors, and the overall richness of the meal, you can create a truly satisfying and memorable culinary experience centered around your delicious funeral potatoes.
