French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show at your next family gathering, look no further! These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just your average cheesy potato casserole. They come with a delightful twist of flavor and a homemade crispy onion topping that makes every bite memorable. This recipe has become a staple in my household, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with something comforting and delicious.

There’s something incredibly special about the blend of creamy goodness and rich onion flavor. The layers of hash browns, cheddar cheese, and sour cream create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate. I promise once you try these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, they’ll be a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory goodness of these potatoes—it’s hard to resist!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance, making it a great option for potlucks or busy evenings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and caramelized onions creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create these delightful 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

The beauty of French Onion Funeral Potatoes is how flexible they can be! Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top.
• Cheese Swap: Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack to change up the flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This will ensure that our potatoes cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown finish we all adore. While the oven warms up, grab your baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial because it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier after enjoying this delicious meal!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Add the diced yellow onion along with minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This process caramelizes the onions slightly, bringing out their natural sweetness which enhances our potato dish beautifully.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything until well combined; this mix is going to create layers of flavor as it bakes!

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

While the potato mixture is resting, prepare your crispy onions! In another skillet over medium heat, heat up vegetable oil until shimmering. Carefully add thinly sliced onions into the hot oil in batches until they turn golden brown—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes per batch. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before sprinkling with salt.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with those golden crispy onions we made earlier. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Once done baking, let it cool slightly before serving warm as a side dish at dinner or any occasion where comfort food is required! Enjoy every cheesy bite of these French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate this dish to perfection!

• Thaw the Hash Browns Completely: Ensuring your hash browns are fully thawed allows for even cooking and prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh garlic and onions instead of pre-packaged versions will enhance the flavors significantly, giving your dish that homemade taste.

• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor complexity.

• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked.

• Crispy Onion Topping: For an extra crispy topping, bake the casserole uncovered during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This step adds a delightful crunch that’s hard to resist!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving your French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some ideas to make your meal memorable.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the potatoes.
• Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions offer a mild bite that enhances both the appearance and taste of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems are caramelized to perfection, providing a slightly bitter contrast that balances out the creamy potatoes.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on your plate!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the funeral potatoes.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and a healthy element to your meal while its slight crunch pairs well with creamy dishes.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your next gathering with these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes along with perfect accompaniments! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. This makes them a fantastic option for gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the potatoes cool completely.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in a baking dish, covering with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

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

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt and use dairy-free cheese for a similar cheesy flavor.

How do I get a crispy topping on my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

To achieve that delightful crispy topping, make sure to fry your onions until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown before adding them on top of the baked casserole.

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh hash browns, you may need to par-cook them slightly before mixing in with the other ingredients to ensure they cook evenly in the oven.

How long do French Onion Funeral Potatoes take to bake?

French Onion Funeral Potatoes typically take about 50 minutes when baked at 350°F. Just keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-brown!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Don’t hesitate to invite friends and family over to share this delightful dish. Happy cooking!