French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will bring smiles to your family and friends, look no further than these French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our home! With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The twist of adding crispy onions on top not only makes it visually appealing but also adds an irresistible crunch that takes this dish to the next level.

What I love most about French Onion Funeral Potatoes is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip this up in a flash and let the oven do the rest. Trust me; once you serve this at your next potluck or holiday dinner, it will surely be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready to bake.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The cheesy, creamy goodness makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble everything ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy onion topping creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! They are all wholesome and easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need for your French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

For the Potato Mixture

• 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 how flexible this recipe can be! You can easily mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for a colorful twist.
• Change up the cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar for different flavors.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you want extra heat.
• Switch to sweet potatoes: For a healthier option, swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that when you’re ready to bake, your casserole will cook evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with 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 together until well combined. This mixture will create that creamy base we all love!

Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish

Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray before pouring in the potato mixture. Spread it evenly across the dish so every bite gets that delicious flavor.

Step 4: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

While your casserole is baking, it’s time for those crispy onions! In a heavy skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the thinly sliced onions until golden brown and crispy. This step creates that wonderful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle those crispy onions over the top so they get warm but don’t burn. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving—though I doubt anyone will wait too long! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and a few helpful tips can make all the difference!

• Use thawed hash browns: Thawing your frozen hash browns ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.

• Shred your own cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options, resulting in a creamier texture that enhances the overall flavor.

• Caramelize the onions: Take your time to caramelize the onions until they’re golden brown. This deepens their flavor and adds a wonderful sweetness that complements the cheesy potatoes beautifully.

• Don’t skip the cayenne pepper: Adding just a hint of cayenne pepper gives a warm kick without overpowering the dish. It balances out the richness and makes each bite more exciting!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing its flavors.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes can turn any meal into an occasion! Here are some creative ideas to present this cheesy delight beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only brightens up the plate but also provides a refreshing taste that complements the richness of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The crispness of steamed broccoli provides a lovely contrast to the creamy potatoes, adding both color and nutrition to your meal.
• Roasted asparagus: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus, making it a perfect companion for these hearty potatoes.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and acidity that balances well with the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: For those who love carbs (who doesn’t?), garlic bread is an excellent choice that pairs wonderfully with cheesy dishes!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your French Onion Funeral Potatoes will be sure to impress at any gathering or family meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them ahead of time, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings or busy weeknights.

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 dish but do not bake it.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered with foil for about 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes without sour cream?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

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

To achieve that perfect crispy topping, make sure to use fresh onions and fry them until golden brown. This adds great flavor and a delightful crunch!

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh hash browns, just ensure they are properly drained of excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

How long does it take to bake French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

The total baking time is about 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They are not only comforting and delicious but also bring a special twist to any gathering. Enjoy every cheesy bite, share them with loved ones, and create wonderful memories around the table. Happy cooking!