Name: French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 ½ cups sour cream; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; ½ cup chicken broth, room temperature; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced for topping; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried mustard; ½ cup whole milk, room temperature; 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

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If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, you’ve found it! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just a meal; they’re a warm hug on a plate. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of cheesy potatoes with the savory flavor of caramelized onions, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Each bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia, making it an absolute favorite in my home.

I love how versatile this dish is. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, during holidays, or simply as a cozy dinner at home, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes will steal the show. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat.
Family favorite: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Flavorful twist: The addition of crispy onions adds an irresistible crunch that elevates this classic dish.
Versatile side: Pair it with almost any main course—it’s sure to complement your meal beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these French Onion Funeral Potatoes is easy with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll 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

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delightful plant-based option.
Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is essential as it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all crave. Don’t forget to spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and add the diced onion. Sauté until they are soft and translucent. This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients for the Casserole

In a large bowl, mix together thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk until well combined. This combination creates that rich and creamy base we love in funeral potatoes.

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly. Now it’s time to bake! Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Onion Topping

While your casserole bakes away beautifully in the oven, heat vegetable oil in another pan over medium-high heat. Once hot enough—test by dropping an onion slice; if it sizzles—you can start frying those thinly sliced onions until they are crispy and golden brown. Sprinkle them with kosher salt as they come out of the oil.

Step 6: Top It Off!

Once your casserole is out of the oven and has cooled slightly, sprinkle those crispy fried onions on top. This final touch adds an amazing crunch that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes below.

And there you have it! Serve these French Onion Funeral Potatoes hot as a delightful side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that every bite is as delicious as it can be!

Use fresh ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and freshly diced onions enhance the flavor profile of your dish, making it rich and robust without any preservatives or additives.
Don’t skip the seasoning: The right amount of salt, pepper, and spices like cayenne and dried mustard will elevate your potatoes from average to outstanding. Seasoning helps to bring out the natural flavors in each ingredient.
Layer your flavors: When mixing the hash browns with the cheese and sour cream, ensure everything is well-combined. This guarantees that every scoop contains that heavenly cheesy goodness you crave.
Crispy onion topping: For an extra crunch, consider adding more crispy onions on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will give your casserole that perfect contrast in texture.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking will help it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and ensuring it maintains its integrity on the plate.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Presenting your French Onion Funeral Potatoes beautifully can make a great impression at gatherings or family dinners. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish:

Garnishes

Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
Shredded cheese: Adding a little more shredded cheddar on top right before serving can create a beautiful melty layer that enhances the overall look of the dish.

Side Dishes

Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich potatoes.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini provide a nutritious balance and add vibrant colors to your meal.
Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a fantastic accompaniment that allows everyone to scoop up some cheesy goodness from their plates!
Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color but also brings a nutritious aspect that pairs nicely with the richness of the potatoes.

Enjoy serving this delectable dish at your next gathering; it’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

Prepare the casserole but do not bake it.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
If refrigerated, bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
If frozen, bake covered with foil for 45-60 minutes, then remove the foil for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

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

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Simply peel and grate them, then rinse and dry well before using them in the recipe. This will help maintain a good texture.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely meat-free dish.

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake it.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, including roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even a hearty salad!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! This recipe combines comfort and flavor into one delightful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or family dinner. It’s truly special because it brings everyone together around the table. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try – I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

French Onion Funeral Potatoes

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking/Frying
Cuisine: American

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Description

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comforting side dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the rich flavor of caramelized onions. This delightful casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, whether you’re hosting a potluck, celebrating a holiday, or enjoying a cozy family dinner at home. The crispy onion topping adds the perfect crunch, making every bite an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale

32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 ½ cups sour cream
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth, room temperature
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced for topping
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried mustard
½ cup whole milk, room temperature
4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until soft and translucent.
In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, garlic, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk until well mixed.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
For the crispy topping, heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry thinly sliced onions until crispy and golden brown; sprinkle with salt.
Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before topping with crispy onions.