French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will make your family gather around the table and ask for seconds, then you need to try these French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic potato casserole, packed with creamy goodness and topped with crispy onions. It’s one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy to any occasion—be it a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Trust me, once you serve this up, you’ll be the star of the show!

What makes this dish even more special is its ability to evoke nostalgia while being incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of savory flavors and cheesy goodness is simply irresistible. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for busy days when you want something delicious ready to go.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of creamy cheddar and crispy onions creates an unforgettable flavor that feels like a warm hug.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with almost anything—from roasted veggies to grilled chicken—and it will shine at any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need for these French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Each item plays a crucial role in creating that creamy, cheesy goodness topped with crunchy onions.

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 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily personalize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few fun variations:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving for an aromatic touch.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and add the diced yellow onion. Sauté until they turn translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to your casserole.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sautéed onions, garlic, sour cream, cheddar cheese, flour, and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Mix well until everything is nicely blended.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Now it’s time to bake for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

While your casserole bakes, heat vegetable oil in another pan over medium heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onions and fry until they become crispy and golden brown. Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and top with those delicious crispy onions. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious:

• Use thawed hash browns: Thawing the frozen hash browns helps them mix better with the other ingredients, ensuring an even texture throughout the casserole.

• Opt for sharp cheddar: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sour cream, making each bite irresistible.

• Perfectly caramelize your onions: Take your time when cooking the sliced onions until they are golden brown and sweet. This step enhances the overall flavor profile and adds depth to your casserole.

• Don’t skip the flour: Adding a bit of all-purpose flour helps bind all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and rich texture in every serving.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish at your next gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra cheese: For cheese lovers, add an additional handful of shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an ooey-gooey finish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts beautifully balances out the richness of the potatoes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until crispy.
• Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Grilled asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to your meal. Just toss in olive oil and season with salt before grilling.
• Garlic bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread is always a hit! Its crunchy exterior complements the softness of the potatoes perfectly.

These serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience with French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Enjoy every moment around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just delicious; they’re perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time or store leftovers easily, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely after baking.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Simply peel and cube them, then parboil until just tender before mixing with the other ingredients.

How do I make my French Onion Funeral Potatoes extra cheesy?

To amp up the cheesiness, consider adding different varieties of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère along with sharp cheddar.

Are there any substitutes for sour cream in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative as a substitute for sour cream without sacrificing flavor.

What makes French Onion Funeral Potatoes special?

The unique combination of creamy potato goodness and crispy onion topping creates a comforting side dish that stands out at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any table, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it might just become your new favorite side dish! Happy cooking!