French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering, look no further than French Onion Funeral Potatoes! This delightful casserole is a family favorite in my home. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy onion topping, it’s hard not to fall in love with this rich, satisfying side dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or attending a potluck, French Onion Funeral Potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up quickly on busy weeknights or make it ahead of time for special occasions. The combination of flavors makes this dish truly unforgettable, and I can guarantee your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready for the oven.
• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it in advance and bake it just before serving.
• Versatile sides: Pair it with almost anything—grilled meats, salads, or even on its own!
• Comfort food at its best: The creamy layers and crispy topping create a heartwarming experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create the comforting flavors of French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

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

One of the best things about French Onion Funeral Potatoes is their flexibility. You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand!

• Add some veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
• Herb it up: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after enjoying your delicious meal.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent. This process enhances their sweetness and adds depth to our casserole.

Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, sautéed onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir everything together until well mixed—this creates that creamy texture we love!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone coming back for more!

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Topping

While your casserole is baking, heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Carefully add thinly sliced onions in batches until they turn crispy and golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 7: Top with Crispy Onions

Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and sprinkle those lovely crispy onions on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes just to warm them up.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Let your French Onion Funeral Potatoes cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish alongside family and friends—it’s perfect for creating lasting memories!

With each bite of this cheesy goodness topped with crispy onions, you’ll understand why it’s become such a cherished recipe in my home!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure perfection!

• Use thawed hash browns: Thawing the frozen hash browns allows them to cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in your casserole, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Sauté the onions until caramelized: Cooking the onions until they’re golden brown brings out their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Choose sharp cheddar cheese: A sharper cheese adds depth and richness to the casserole, balancing perfectly with the creamy sour cream mixture.

• Let it rest after baking: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your taste. A pinch of smoked paprika or some fresh herbs like thyme can elevate the flavor profile even more!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about presentation and pairing. This delicious dish works well for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting side dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: Sprinkling fresh chives on top adds a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For an unexpected twist, a sprinkle of feta introduces a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds vibrant colors and textures that balance the richness of the potatoes.
• Simple green salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty potatoes.
• Garlic bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread makes for a comforting addition that everyone will love—perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness!
• Steamed broccoli: This nutrient-packed vegetable not only adds color but also brings a nice crunch that complements the creamy potatoes.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your French Onion Funeral Potatoes! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious casserole.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the potatoes according to the recipe but do not bake them.
• Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, thaw completely before reheating.
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 30 minutes until warmed through. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

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

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What can I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes make a wonderful side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement many main dishes!

Can I use other types of cheese in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Yes! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my French Onion Funeral Potatoes are crispy on top?

To achieve that perfect crispy topping, be sure to bake uncovered during the last part of cooking. You can also add extra fried onions on top before baking for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as I am! This comforting dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. There’s something truly special about sharing good food with friends and family, and this recipe will surely bring smiles around your table. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!