French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that will make everyone feel right at home, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole that every family loves. With their creamy texture and crispy onion topping, these potatoes are great for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to prepare. You can whip it up quickly and have it ready to serve as a side dish for dinner or even at potlucks. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The cheesy goodness and crispy topping are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, which is ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair well with many main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need:

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 flexible and can be easily adapted to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Greens: Mix in some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or diced green chilies for a kick of heat!
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute sour cream with a plant-based version and use dairy-free cheese without compromising taste.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures even cooking and that delicious golden-brown crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier later on.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step develops the rich flavors that make this dish so special!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sautéed onion mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir well until everything is combined. The mixture should be creamy and full of flavor.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This ensures every bite gets that lovely cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Make the Crispy Topping

In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions to the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. This step adds an irresistible crunch on top of your casserole.

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking so those crispy onions can brown beautifully on top!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can also be reheated if there are any leftovers! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor. The sharper the cheddar, the better!

• Don’t rush the onion caramelization: Taking your time to caramelize the onions will deepen their flavor and add a delicious sweetness to your dish.

• 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 slice and serve.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can introduce exciting new flavors.

• Make ahead for convenience: This dish can easily be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

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

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of chopped chives adds a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

• Crumbled cheese: A light dusting of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top can add creaminess and a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the potatoes while providing a nutritious element.

• Garden salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the casserole.

• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy potatoes. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

• Grilled chicken or tofu: For those looking for protein options, grilled chicken or marinated tofu can round out the meal nicely without overpowering the flavors of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this comforting side dish! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, so they’re ready when you need a comforting side dish. Here’s how to store or freeze your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil or place in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just peel and cube them into small pieces. Parboil them for about 10 minutes before mixing with other ingredients to ensure they cook evenly.

How can I make my French Onion Funeral Potatoes healthier?

To lighten up this dish, consider using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition!

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them a day ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What is a good substitute for chicken broth in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

You can use vegetable broth as a great alternative that still adds flavor without using animal products.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these comforting French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe is not only a delightful twist on a classic but also perfect for gatherings and meal prep. Whether served at a family dinner or just to brighten up your weeknight meals, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!