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 potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a comforting side. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you’ll find it hard to resist serving this crowd-pleaser again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy onions makes every bite a treat.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these potatoes fit right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for effortless entertaining.
- Versatile Flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar cheese and savory onions creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan
- Whisk
- Nonstick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for even cooking and easy serving of the French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
- Frying pan: Essential for sautéing onions to achieve that golden-brown crispy texture that enhances the dish’s flavor.
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. This ensures even cooking once you place your casserole inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
In a frying pan over medium heat:
1. Add the diced small yellow onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk.
2. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Prepare Crispy Onion Topping
In another frying pan:
1. Heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add thinly sliced large yellow onions.
3. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Step 7: Bake
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 8: Add Crispy Onions
Once cooked, remove from oven and top with crispy fried onions before serving. Enjoy your delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes!
How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish that can elevate any meal. These creamy, cheesy potatoes pair beautifully with various main courses and are perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
With Grilled Meats
- Steak: The richness of steak complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
- Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken adds a savory balance to the dish.
- Pork Chops: The flavors of pork chops harmonize well with the cheesy goodness.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Egg Casserole: Pairing it with an egg casserole creates a hearty brunch option.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich potatoes.
- Pastries: Including pastries can enhance the variety on your brunch table.
At Family Gatherings
- BBQ Ribs: The smoky flavor of BBQ ribs is a fantastic match for these potatoes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious complement.
- Meatloaf: A classic meatloaf serves as a comforting pairing with French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes
To achieve the best results with your French Onion Funeral Potatoes, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Thawed Hash Browns: This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture from ruining the texture.
- Customize Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for unique flavors.
- Add More Onions: For extra flavor, consider caramelizing more onions to mix in or use as topping.
- Check for Crispiness: Bake until golden brown on top for that perfect crunchy texture everyone loves.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps set it and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes
When serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing out the meal’s richness.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a comforting contrast to the savory potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect sidekick.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add brightness and crunch to your dining experience.
- Garlic Bread – This buttery, garlic-infused bread is always a hit alongside cheesy casseroles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making French Onion Funeral Potatoes, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using frozen hash browns directly: Always thaw your frozen hash browns before mixing them with other ingredients. This prevents excess moisture from ruining the casserole’s texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer of your dish. Properly seasoning helps enhance the flavors, making your potatoes more delicious.
- Overcooking the onions: Cook your onions until they are golden and soft, but avoid burning them. Burnt onions can add an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.
- Neglecting to grease the baking dish: Failing to spray your baking dish can lead to sticking. Grease it well to ensure easy serving and cleanup.
- Not letting it rest: Allow your casserole to cool slightly after baking. This rest time helps set the layers and makes it easier to serve.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure that the casserole is completely cooled before sealing it.
Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Freeze in a suitable container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and stir occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a creamy potato casserole topped with crispy onions, combining comforting flavors inspired by French onion soup.
Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it.
How do I customize my French Onion Funeral Potatoes recipe?
Feel free to adjust the cheese types or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, salads, or as part of a potluck spread. They’re versatile enough for any meal!
Final Thoughts
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are an incredible twist on a classic recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether served at gatherings or family dinners, this dish is sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Indulge in the heartwarming delight of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, a creamy potato casserole that redefines comfort food. This dish features a luscious blend of thawed hash browns, sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream, all topped with golden brown crispy onions for that irresistible crunch. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is sure to steal the spotlight. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s destined to become a favorite at your table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced for topping)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Seasonings: garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a frying pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, flour, seasonings, chicken broth, and milk. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In another pan, fry the sliced onions in heated oil until golden brown and crispy; sprinkle with salt.
- Bake the casserole for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Remove from oven and add crispy onions before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
