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. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, this casserole will surely be a hit at your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of cheese, sour cream, and crispy onions creates an indulgent dish that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, making them suitable for any occasion.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance and simply bake it before serving, saving you time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serving 12 people makes this an excellent choice for large gatherings where you want to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create your French Onion Funeral Potatoes effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help streamline the preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the delicious ingredients together while baking evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions to get that perfect caramelization before adding them to the casserole.

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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a mixing 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 whole milk. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Step 4: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

In a skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Add thinly sliced onions and cook until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Top the potato mixture with crispy fried onions. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.

Enjoy your homemade French Onion Funeral Potatoes as a delightful side dish that will leave everyone wanting more!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Their creamy texture and crispy onion topping make them an appealing choice for gatherings or family dinners.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breasts complement the creamy potatoes beautifully, adding a juicy protein to your plate.

Alongside Beef Roast

• The richness of a beef roast enhances the savory flavors of the French Onion Funeral Potatoes, creating a hearty meal.

Pairing with Turkey

• Serve these potatoes with roasted turkey for a comforting dinner that feels festive any day of the week.

As a Standalone Dish

• For a simple meal, enjoy them on their own. A side salad can brighten up the plate and add freshness.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Add color and nutrients by serving steamed broccoli or green beans next to your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• The combination of cheesy potatoes and garlic bread makes for a satisfying comfort food experience.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Perfecting French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about the details. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use thawed hash browns – Ensure your frozen cubed hash browns are completely thawed for even cooking and texture.
• Melt the butter – Using melted butter helps combine ingredients smoothly and enhances flavor throughout the dish.
• Layer cheese generously – Adding extra cheese not only increases creaminess but also creates a deliciously gooey texture.
• Sauté onions before baking – Pre-cooking the onions brings out their sweetness, which balances the richness of the potatoes.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking to create a complete meal, consider these tasty side dishes that pair wonderfully with French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with creamy potatoes.
2. Caesar Salad – This classic salad adds crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a refreshing bite.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots bring balance to your meal while providing vibrant color and nutrients.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the potatoes.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus adds an elegant touch while keeping your meal healthy and flavorful.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is another great option that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving that perfect dish.

• Using frozen hash browns without thawing: Always thaw your frozen cubed hash browns before using them to ensure even cooking and a better texture.
• Skipping the onion sautéing step: Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and flavor. Make sure to cook them until they’re soft and golden.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is vital in cooking. Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate amounts of cheese, broth, and other ingredients.
• Overcooking the topping: Keep an eye on the crispy onion topping while baking. If it gets too dark, it can taste bitter; cover with foil if needed.
• Neglecting to season properly: Don’t skip seasoning with salt and pepper. Taste your mixture before baking to make adjustments as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes, we’ve got you covered!

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes creamier?

To achieve creamier potatoes, consider adding extra sour cream or cream cheese to your mixture.

Can I use different types of cheese for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for added flavor.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair well with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. This cheesy potato casserole makes a fantastic side dish for gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses to make it truly your own!