French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, let me introduce you to my beloved French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole, featuring a homemade crispy onion topping that takes it to another level. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something comforting on a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes so special? It’s all about the layers of flavor and creaminess, combined with that satisfying crunch on top. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the cheesy goodness and crispy onions—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of creamy potatoes and savory onions creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or a cozy dinner at home, these potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! With these simple, wholesome items, you’ll be well on your way to making French Onion Funeral Potatoes that will impress everyone at your table.

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

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add some greens: Toss in some cooked spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños for a kick of heat that pairs nicely with the creamy potatoes.
• Go vegan: Substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese for a delicious vegan option.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets beautifully bubbly when it’s time to serve!

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Mix everything until well combined. This mixture will create a creamy base filled with flavor!

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour in the potato mixture and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite has that rich flavor we love!

Step 4: Make the Crispy Topping

In a pan over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully add your separated onion layers and fry until golden brown and crispy. This process enhances their sweetness and adds that delightful crunch we crave on top of our casserole.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Once your casserole is assembled and topped with those crispy onions, bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and lightly golden on top.

And there you have it—deliciously cheesy French Onion Funeral Potatoes that are sure to be a hit! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about a few key details that can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary!

• Use thawed hash browns: Thawing the frozen hash browns allows them to mix better with the creamy filling and helps achieve a consistent texture throughout the casserole.

• Choose sharp cheddar cheese: Opting for sharp cheddar adds a deeper flavor profile that complements the richness of the sour cream and butter, giving your potatoes a delicious bite.

• Don’t skip pre-cooking the onions: Sautéing your diced onion until caramelized enhances their sweetness and brings out that classic French onion flavor, making your casserole even more delectable.

• Layer properly: Make sure to evenly distribute the potato mixture in your baking dish. This ensures an even cook and a lovely crispy topping on every serving!

• 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 and enjoy without falling apart.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the rich flavors of your casserole.

• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions can provide a mild crunch and additional flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Steamed green beans: Their crisp texture and vibrant color complement the rich, cheesy potatoes perfectly, adding a nutritious element to your plate.

• Garden salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for extra zing!

• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring warmth and earthiness to your meal. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully when roasted, making them an ideal partner for French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

• Garlic bread: For those who adore carbs (and who doesn’t?), garlic bread is a fantastic accompaniment. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate!

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

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make this comforting dish in advance, making it an ideal option for gatherings or busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftover French Onion Funeral Potatoes to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, allow casserole to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 30-40 minutes until heated through. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

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

Yes! If you prefer fresh potatoes, peel and cube them into small pieces. Parboil them briefly until slightly tender, then follow the recipe as usual.

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

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or herbs like thyme or rosemary. You could also experiment with different cheese types!

Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian as it features no meat ingredients. Just ensure any broth used is vegetable-based.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These flavorful potatoes make a great side dish for roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty salad. They complement many meals beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They are not just a delicious twist on a classic but also a warm, comforting addition to any meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!