French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone together, then French Onion Funeral Potatoes is the recipe for you! This delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious.

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes truly special is the crispy onion topping that adds an irresistible crunch. It’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your home with inviting aromas. Once you serve it up, you’ll find everyone going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before serving, making it perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy onions creates a cozy dish that’s perfect any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these mouthwatering French Onion Funeral Potatoes. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your potatoes.
• Cheese swap: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a new twist on flavor.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the taste and add freshness.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly. While the oven heats up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking—no one wants those tasty potatoes stuck to the pan!

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Mix everything until well combined. This mixture is where all the magic happens; each ingredient adds its own unique flavor!

Step 3: Spread in Baking Dish

Once mixed well, pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has that creamy goodness. It’s okay if it looks a bit lumpy; that’s part of its charm!

Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

In a separate bowl or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions carefully to avoid splashing hot oil. Fry them until golden brown and crispy—this step is what will give our casserole an amazing texture contrast! Remove them from oil and drain on paper towels before sprinkling with salt.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Now comes the best part! Bake your potato mixture in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top. About five minutes before it’s done cooking, generously sprinkle those crispy fried onions over the top. Pop it back in until they’re golden brown and crunchy!

And there you have it! Serve your French Onion Funeral Potatoes warm as a side dish at dinner or as comfort food anytime you crave something hearty. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish is a hit at any gathering!

• Use Thawed Hash Browns: Thawing your frozen hash browns allows for better texture and even cooking. This prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.

• Opt for Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choosing sharp cheddar enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Its bold taste cuts through the creaminess, giving each bite that extra punch.

• Caramelize Your Onions: Taking the time to thoroughly caramelize your onions adds depth and sweetness to the dish. The rich flavor will elevate your casserole from ordinary to extraordinary!

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This makes serving easier and enhances the overall texture.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with herbs can provide an additional crunchy layer that complements the creamy potatoes.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Presenting them well can make all the difference at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

• Extra Cheese: A light sprinkle of shredded cheese on top right when it comes out of the oven creates an inviting melty appearance.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. Their natural sweetness complements the richness of the potatoes beautifully.

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread or rolls add a wonderful crunch. They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate!

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds color and nutrition. Plus, its slight bitterness balances out the richness of the potatoes perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your French Onion Funeral Potatoes are sure to be a memorable centerpiece at any meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Funeral Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors at any time. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just want to savor leftovers during the week, these potatoes store beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, allow the dish to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes! Just make sure to par-cook them slightly before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure they cook evenly.

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

If you’re looking for alternatives, Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream can work well. Both options will give a similar creamy texture.

How can I make my French Onion Funeral Potatoes spicy?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or even add diced jalapeños into the mix. Adjust according to your heat preference!

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a fantastic option for gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just a side dish; they bring warmth and comfort that makes any meal special. I encourage you to try this recipe at your next family gathering or cozy dinner night—you won’t regret it. Happy cooking!