French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Discover the recipe for French Onion Funeral Potatoes, a delicious twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole with a homemade crispy onion topping! This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. The rich flavors of cheese and onions combined with the creamy texture make this casserole a standout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Creamy: The blend of sour cream and cheddar cheese creates a rich, comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, this dish can be made in no time, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, French Onion Funeral Potatoes fit right in.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping adds an irresistible crunch to each bite.
• Serves a Crowd: Perfectly portioned for gatherings, this recipe serves 12 people easily.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Nonstick spray
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and allows ample space for all the ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling or mess.

Ingredients

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

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. In a 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 whole milk.
2. Stir until fully mixed and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
2. Spread out the mixture gently to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

1. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add thinly sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake the hash browns in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
2. In the last few minutes of baking, add the crispy onion topping evenly across the casserole.
3. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes at your next gathering!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes make a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Their creamy texture and crispy onion topping are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• With Roast Chicken: Serve alongside juicy roast chicken for a comforting meal.
• As a Side for Burgers: Pair with grilled burgers for a fun backyard BBQ.

Holiday Gatherings

• At Thanksgiving: This dish adds a creamy touch to the traditional turkey feast.
• During Christmas Dinner: Serve as an indulgent side that complements ham or beef well.

Potlucks and Gatherings

• For Potluck Parties: French Onion Funeral Potatoes are easy to transport and share with friends.
• As a Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy gatherings, where everyone appreciates hearty flavors.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Achieving the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use thawed hash browns: Ensure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed for even cooking.
• Melt the butter properly: Allow the butter to melt completely before mixing it in to avoid clumps.
• Layer the cheese: For extra creaminess, layer some cheese in between the potato mixtures.
• Crisp the onions well: Fry the sliced onions until golden brown for that crunchy topping.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go, especially with salt and spices, to achieve the desired flavor.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options that complement this delicious casserole perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition while balancing richness.
2. Garlic Bread: The crusty texture of garlic bread complements the creamy potatoes delightfully.
3. Salad Greens: A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy potatoes.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add an earthy flavor that works well with the richness of the potatoes.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli gives a healthy crunch and adds color to your plate.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite against the creamy casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing French Onion Funeral Potatoes, some common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are key points to consider for perfect results.

• Skipping the thawing process: Always thaw your frozen hash browns completely before use. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Opt for freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best creamy texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Ensure you taste and adjust the seasoning. Adding enough kosher salt, pepper, and spices like cayenne will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Overcooking the onions: When sautéing onions, cook until they’re golden brown but not burnt. This brings out their natural sweetness without bitterness.
• Ignoring baking time: Follow the recommended baking time closely. Underbaking can lead to a soggy casserole while overbaking may dry it out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about French Onion Funeral Potatoes or how to make them, check out these frequently asked questions.

What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a creamy potato casserole with a crispy onion topping, combining flavors reminiscent of classic French onion soup.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator overnight before baking them.

What can I substitute for sour cream in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative as substitutes without compromising flavor.

How do I customize my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach or switch up the cheese based on personal preference!

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer a comforting twist on a classic casserole with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. This versatile dish is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!