French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that everyone will love, then you have to try these French Onion Funeral Potatoes! This delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole is not only comforting but also packed with flavor. With layers of crispy onions on top and creamy cheesy goodness underneath, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it brings a smile to every table.

What makes these French Onion Funeral Potatoes really special is how easy they are to prepare! You can whip them up in no time, and they always impress guests. Trust me; once you serve this at your next potluck or holiday dinner, it will become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will savor the delicious flavors of cheesy potatoes topped with crispy onions.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and savory onions creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. 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 Topping

• 2 large yellow onions, (thinly sliced, layers separated; about 4 cups onions)
• 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Swap the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like some heat!

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving a breeze!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent. This step enhances the sweetness of the onions and adds depth to your dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions, garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk until well combined. Make sure everything is evenly mixed; this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Spread into Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula so that it cooks uniformly.

Step 6: Prepare Onion Topping

In another pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions carefully until they become golden brown and crispy. This gives your casserole that signature crunch!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Bake the casserole uncovered for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Just before serving, sprinkle those crispy onions on top for an extra layer of deliciousness!

There you have it! A warm and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every cheesy bite of these French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll take your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right cheese: Opting for sharp cheddar adds a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes. It melts perfectly and gives that gooey texture we all love.

• Don’t skip the onions: Sautéing fresh onions until they’re golden enhances the overall flavor profile. This adds a sweetness and depth that complements the dish beautifully.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your sour cream, chicken broth, and milk to come to room temperature helps in creating a smooth, creamy mixture that blends seamlessly with the hash browns.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly before baking to let those flavors meld together for an even tastier casserole.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash more for some extra heat!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing when served right. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds freshness and color to your casserole.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a pop of flavor and a nice crunch on top of the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make for a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.

• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the potatoes perfectly.

• Grilled chicken thighs: Juicy grilled chicken thighs seasoned with herbs make a protein-packed pairing that complements the cheesy potatoes beautifully.

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed with lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and elegance to your table setting.

Now you’re ready to serve up this comforting classic! Enjoy every bite of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish anytime! Preparing this casserole in advance makes it convenient for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover French Onion Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
• Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been frozen.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• You can also use a microwave, reheating in short increments until hot, stirring occasionally.
• If the top has lost its crispness, consider broiling briefly at the end to revive that delicious crunch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes without sour cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a similar creamy texture.

How do I ensure my French Onion Funeral Potatoes stay crispy?

To keep your French Onion Funeral Potatoes crispy, avoid covering them while baking. Use fresh onions for topping and consider broiling briefly at the end.

What can I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These delightful potatoes pair well with salads, roasted vegetables, or as a side for grilled chicken or beef dishes.

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes! If using fresh hash browns, make sure to rinse them thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

How do I know when my French Onion Funeral Potatoes are done?

Your casserole is ready when it bubbles around the edges and is golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as I am! This dish combines creaminess and crunch in every bite, making it a standout side that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy crafting this comforting recipe—it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!