French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, French Onion Funeral Potatoes are just the ticket! This delightful recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunchy onion topping that is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a beloved favorite!

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes so special? They capture the essence of comfort food while being easy to make. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying it as a side on a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy flavors and crunchy topping.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of creaminess and crispy onions creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and delicious.

For the Casserole

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

For the Topping

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Cheese swap: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Herb infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an added layer of freshness.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and become wonderfully golden brown on top.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial; it keeps your delicious potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup much easier!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. This step brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together thawed hash browns, melted butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well until everything is combined. This mixture is going to be creamy and full of flavor!

Step 5: Assemble Everything

Spread the potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then set it aside while you prepare the topping.

Step 6: Fry the Onions

In another pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add thinly sliced onions and fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown. This adds that wonderful crunch we all love!

Step 7: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the fried onions over the potato mixture in your baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until hot and bubbly. The aromas will fill your kitchen!

Now you have a warm casserole of French Onion Funeral Potatoes ready to serve! Enjoy every cheesy bite with friends and family—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure that your casserole turns out perfectly every time!

• Use freshly shredded cheese – Grating your own cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese, giving your dish a creamier texture.
• Thaw hash browns completely – Ensuring your frozen hash browns are fully thawed helps achieve even cooking and prevents excess moisture from making the dish soggy.
• Sauté onions for extra flavor – Pre-cooking the diced onions enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor of the casserole. It’s an extra step that’s worth it!
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or cayenne based on your preference. Everyone’s palate is unique, so make it yours!
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

When it comes to serving your delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to elevate this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Additional shredded cheese – A light sprinkle of extra cheddar on top right before serving can create an appealing melty layer that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans – Their crispness pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes, providing a fresh contrast in both texture and flavor.
• Garden salad with vinaigrette – A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the potatoes, balancing your meal beautifully.
• Roasted broccoli – Tossing broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting creates a savory side that complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
• Corn on the cob – Sweet corn brings a delightful burst of flavor and sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for these heartwarming potatoes.

Enjoy creating your own memorable meal with these wonderful French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They’re sure to delight family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare this dish in advance, making it a great option for gatherings or busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and reheat your tasty creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If refrigerated, bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen casseroles, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes that you might find helpful:

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

Yes, you can! Just be sure to shred them into small pieces and cook them slightly before mixing with other ingredients. This will help achieve that creamy texture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary or even mix in some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. The key is to balance flavors while keeping that classic onion taste.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

This dish pairs wonderfully with various proteins like roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement any meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! This dish brings warmth and comfort to any table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering. Don’t hesitate to share your own twists on the recipe; I’d love to hear how you make it your own. Happy cooking!