French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that brings smiles and warmth to any table, French Onion Funeral Potatoes are just the ticket! This delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole is not only incredibly delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy onion topping creates a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, making it an instant favorite at any meal.

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are more than just a side; they’re a cherished recipe that tells stories of shared meals and happy times. Whether you’re serving them at a potluck or enjoying them at home with loved ones, this dish will surely steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this dish in the oven in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a cheesy potato dish, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you need it – stress-free entertaining!
• Comforting flavors: The rich combination of cheddar cheese and crispy onions creates a savory experience that warms the heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Gather these items to create your new favorite comfort food:

For the Potato 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 things about French Onion Funeral Potatoes is their flexibility! You can easily make adjustments to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add veggies: Mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using gouda or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños for a kick of heat that elevates this comforting dish.
• Swap the broth: For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and becomes bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier later on.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Add diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent. Cooking the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which elevates the flavor of your casserole.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cooked onions, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed. This creamy mixture is what makes every bite so satisfying!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

In another skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil until hot. Carefully add thinly sliced onions and fry them until golden brown. Once done, remove them from oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. These crispy onions will add an irresistible crunch to your casserole!

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. In the final few minutes of baking, sprinkle those crispy fried onions over the top for added texture.

Now you have a delicious dish ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes; they’re sure to become a new family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh onions and quality cheese. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor, ensuring that each bite is rich and satisfying.

• Let Hash Browns Thaw Completely: Make sure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed before mixing. This prevents excess moisture that can make your casserole soggy.

• Layer Flavors: Don’t skip sautéing the onions until golden brown. This step adds a depth of flavor that complements the cheesy goodness beautifully.

• Customize Your Cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, consider mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds creaminess.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving. This is a great time-saver for gatherings and allows the flavors to meld even more.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes make a fantastic centerpiece at any gathering, whether it’s a potluck or a family dinner. The creamy texture paired with crispy onion topping creates an eye-catching presentation that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Additional Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top right before baking can create an even cheesier crust that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli provide vibrant colors and complement the creamy potatoes perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, providing that satisfying crunch alongside the soft potatoes.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add both color and nutrition to your meal while offering a nice crunch that contrasts well with the creamy casserole.

Enjoy creating this heartwarming dish and sharing it with loved ones—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy the comforting flavors whenever you crave a delicious side dish.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered for about 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these tasty potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just peel and cube them, then parboil for about 5-7 minutes before mixing with the other ingredients.

What’s the best way to reheat French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

The best way is to bake them in the oven. This ensures they maintain their crispy topping while getting hot all the way through.

Can I add other ingredients to my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or even different types of cheese for extra flavor.

How do I prevent my onions from burning on top of French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

To prevent burning, keep an eye on the casserole during baking. If they start browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil until it’s done cooking.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! They are a delightful twist on a classic recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether you serve them at a family dinner or bring them to a potluck, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy bite!