French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole. This dish is not only rich and creamy but also topped with crispy onions that add an irresistible crunch. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes these potatoes so special is their combination of flavors and textures. The sharp cheddar cheese melds beautifully with the sour cream, while the homemade crispy onions elevate it to a whole new level. Trust me; once you serve this dish, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and crispy texture.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and enjoy effortless entertaining.
• Incredible Flavor: The blend of cheese and crispy onions offers an unforgettable taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a breeze! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create something truly delicious.

For the Casserole

• 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, (thawed)
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, (melted)
• 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, (shredded)
• 1 ½ cups (345 g) sour cream
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, (diced)
• 2 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
• ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried mustard
• ½ cup (120 g) chicken broth, (room temperature)
• ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk, (room temperature)

For the Crispy Onion Topping

• 2 large yellow onions, (thinly sliced, layers separated (about 4 cups onions))
• 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Variations

One of the best parts about French Onion Funeral Potatoes is how flexible they can be! Here are some fun variations to make this recipe your own:

• Add some veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile that still melts beautifully.
• Spice it up: Include diced jalapeños or add more cayenne pepper for some heat!
• Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce calories while keeping that creamy texture.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step ensures that your delicious casserole won’t stick to the pan—no one wants a messy cleanup after enjoying such good food!

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of butter and add diced onion. Sauté until translucent—this brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your casserole. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for an extra flavor boost!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together thawed hash browns, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, whole milk, and sautéed onion mixture. Stir until everything is well combined; this creates that creamy texture we all love!

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite has that delicious cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Onions

In another skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil until shimmering. Carefully add thinly sliced onions in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy. Once done, drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.

Step 6: Bake Your Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. In the last five minutes of baking time, sprinkle those crispy fried onions over the top. This final touch takes your French Onion Funeral Potatoes from good to absolutely amazing!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this incredible dish with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use thawed hash browns: Starting with thawed hash browns ensures even cooking and a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
• Don’t skip the crispy onion topping: This crunchy layer not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor, making each bite irresistible.
• Adjust cheese to your liking: While sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack for added creaminess or spice!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up and makes serving easier while intensifying the flavors.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

When it comes time to present your French Onion Funeral Potatoes, consider how you can make the meal even more inviting. This dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and additional crunch, enhancing both appearance and taste.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers offer a colorful and healthy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Garden salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes balances out the richness of the casserole while adding refreshing textures.
• Garlic bread: Golden-brown garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, providing a delightful crunch that guests will love.
• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting combination with your cheesy potatoes while keeping everything on theme.

Now that you’re equipped with these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious twist on a classic! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. They store beautifully and can be enjoyed over several days, making them a convenient side dish for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• For crispy tops, uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I substitute for sour cream in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a lighter option. Alternatively, you could use cottage cheese blended until smooth.

How do I ensure my French Onion Funeral Potatoes come out creamy?

Be sure to mix well after adding your liquid ingredients (chicken broth and milk) to evenly distribute moisture throughout.

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen hash browns for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

While frozen hash browns give you that perfect texture and convenience, you can use fresh potatoes if you grate them yourself. Just remember they may need extra cooking time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes with your loved ones! Their cheesy goodness and crispy onion topping make them truly special, whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to invite friends over to share this comforting dish!