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 comforting dish is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners, bringing warmth and flavor to any occasion. With its creamy texture and savory onion flavor, French Onion Funeral Potatoes will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up without any fuss.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of cheddar cheese and sautéed onions creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping elevates the dish, adding both texture and an extra layer of flavor.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools to make your experience seamless. Having the right equipment on hand ensures your French Onion Funeral Potatoes turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Nonstick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for even cooking and easy serving of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills or messes.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before mixing them into the casserole.

Ingredients

To create the delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll need the following 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 during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Press down gently to create an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare Crispy Onion Topping

In a skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Once hot, add sliced onions in batches until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels and season with kosher salt.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Evenly spread the crispy onions over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Now you are ready to enjoy your mouthwatering French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful dish that can complement many meals. Here are some delightful ways to serve them for a delicious dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• The savory flavors of grilled chicken enhance the cheesy goodness of the potatoes, creating a well-rounded meal.

Serve Alongside a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, making your meal light yet satisfying.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies add a colorful and nutritious side that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the potatoes.

Enjoy as a Standalone Dish

• These potatoes can shine on their own as the star of your dinner table, especially during gatherings or family meals.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Achieving the best version of French Onion Funeral Potatoes takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you perfect this dish.

• Use thawed hash browns: Ensure your hash browns are completely thawed for even cooking and a creamy texture.
• Sauté onions properly: Cooking onions until caramelized enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your casserole.
• Mix cheeses for flavor: Combining sharp cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella can create a richer taste.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Let it rest after baking: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus
   Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for a healthy and vibrant addition.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons adds crunch and complements the creamy potatoes.

3. Honey-Glazed Carrots
   Sweet, honey-glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory potatoes while adding color to your plate.

4. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction offer a tangy balance that pairs perfectly with cheesy casseroles.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings a seasonal touch and pairs well with rich dishes like French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a hearty accompaniment that satisfies every palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your French Onion Funeral Potatoes turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using frozen hash browns without thawing: Always thaw your frozen hash browns before using them. This helps achieve even cooking and a better texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t overlook the importance of seasoning. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the overall flavor significantly.
• Overcooking the onions: Be careful not to overcook the onions when sautéing. You want them soft and translucent, not caramelized to the point of being too dark.
• Not letting it rest: Allow your casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Using low-quality cheese: Choose a good quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. It makes all the difference in this dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a creamy potato casserole topped with crispy onions, combining rich flavors with comfort food appeal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavors in your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure any added ingredients are plant-based.

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional cheesy casseroles. They’re perfect as a side dish for gatherings or family meals. You can customize this recipe by adding veggies or trying different cheeses, making it versatile for any palate. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting dish!