French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and smiles to the table, look no further than French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This delightful casserole combines the creamy goodness of cheesy potatoes with the rich flavor of caramelized onions. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The crispy onion topping adds a special touch that makes it truly unforgettable.

This recipe is more than just delicious; it’s a beloved favorite in our home. Each bite is filled with nostalgia and warmth, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday meals, or even just as a cozy dinner side. Trust me; once you try these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll find yourself wanting to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple prep steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour this creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cheese and caramelized onions creates an irresistible taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. They come together to create an incredibly comforting dish that everyone will adore!

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 get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese swap: Try using mozzarella or gouda instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Herb it up: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor complexity.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly from start to finish. While the oven warms up, go ahead and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Onion Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and add the diced onion. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The sweetness of the onions will enhance the overall flavor of your casserole, so take your time to let them caramelize just right.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the thawed hash browns, sautéed onions, sour cream, melted butter, garlic, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk until everything is well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly coated—this is where all those lovely flavors come together!

Step 4: Layer in the Baking Dish

Pour this creamy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has that delicious flavor profile we’re aiming for.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

Next up, let’s make that crispy onion topping! In a separate skillet heated over medium-high heat, pour in vegetable oil. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a small piece of onion), carefully add your thinly sliced onions. Fry them until golden brown and crispy—about 10-15 minutes should do it! Don’t forget to sprinkle them with salt as they fry.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Once your crispy onions are ready, sprinkle them generously on top of the potato mixture in your baking dish. Place everything in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving so everyone can enjoy those amazing flavors without burning their mouths!

And there you have it—a comforting dish full of flavor that will surely become a staple at your table! Enjoy every bite of these French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use thawed hash browns: Ensure your frozen cubed hash browns are completely thawed before mixing. This helps them cook evenly and achieve that delightful creamy texture.

• Opt for sharp cheddar cheese: Choosing sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor that complements the onions beautifully. The sharper the cheese, the more intense the flavor will be!

• Don’t skimp on the onions: For that classic French onion taste, make sure to use plenty of onions in both the casserole and as a topping. The caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish.

• Layer your ingredients thoughtfully: When assembling, layer the ingredients gently to ensure even distribution of flavors. This also helps with cooking uniformity, leading to a perfect blend of cheesy goodness in every bite.

• Let it rest before serving: Allow your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps set the layers and makes serving easier while enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes deserve a special presentation! Here’s how you can serve this delightful dish to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions provide a nice crunch and enhance the onion flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These add a savory crunch and their slight bitterness pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color but also brings a healthy element that complements the dish beautifully.
• Garlic bread: Some crispy garlic bread will soak up any leftover sauce on your plate, making it an irresistible pairing with this cheesy delight!

With these serving suggestions and tips, your French Onion Funeral Potatoes will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy, onion-y bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can prepare them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions until warm, but the oven will help keep that crispy topping!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes special?

The combination of creamy cheese and flavorful onions creates a delightful comfort food experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses frozen hash browns for convenience, you can also dice fresh potatoes and parboil them before mixing with the other ingredients.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that your chicken broth is vegetable-based or use water instead.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They bring warmth and comfort to any table, making every meal feel special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish will surely be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!