French Onion Funeral Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that steals the show, you’ve come to the right place! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole. With layers of creamy goodness and topped with crispy onions, this dish is not just comfort food; it’s an experience. Perfect for family gatherings, busy weeknights, or even potlucks, these potatoes will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

What makes this recipe special is its heartwarming connection to gatherings and celebrations. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or as a comforting accompaniment to dinner, this dish radiates warmth and love. Trust me, once you serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip this up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to have even the pickiest eaters coming back for more.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and sweet caramelized onions creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Get ready to create something delicious!

For the Casserole

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

For the Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add some veggies: Mix in cooked broccoli or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: Include some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat!

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and helps achieve that beautiful crust on the edges.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Add diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and adds incredible depth of flavor to your casserole.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sautéed onions and garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk until well combined. This mixture creates that creamy texture we all love.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer your potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; we want that perfect crispy finish!

Enjoy sharing this heartwarming dish with friends and family—you’ll find that French Onion Funeral Potatoes quickly become a beloved favorite at every gathering!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes is easier than you think! With these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to serving a delicious and comforting dish that everyone will love.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh onions instead of pre-packaged ones. Fresh onions offer a more vibrant flavor and will enhance the sweetness of the dish.
• Mix Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends. While sharp cheddar is classic, adding a bit of Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add depth and creaminess to your casserole.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Instead of just crispy onions, consider mixing in some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter for an extra crispy topping that adds texture.
• Allow to Cool Before Serving: Letting the dish sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to set up nicely, making it easier to serve while keeping all those flavors intact.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish a day in advance! Assemble everything, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes is all about presentation and pairing. This dish can be a star at any gathering or weeknight dinner, and here are some ideas to make it even better.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chives or Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Sour Cream Drizzle: A light drizzle of sour cream on top adds creaminess and balances out the savory notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes. Just steam them until bright green and season lightly with salt and lemon juice.
• Garden Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the potatoes.
• Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until they’re tender and slightly charred. The slight bitterness pairs well with the creamy casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil or vegan butter make for perfect dipping companions alongside your hearty potatoes.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your French Onion Funeral Potatoes will not only taste amazing but look beautiful on your table too! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the cozy comfort of this dish without the last-minute hustle. Preparing them ahead of time not only saves you effort but also enhances the flavors!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with a date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your cooking experience:

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving!

What can I substitute for chicken broth in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

You can use vegetable broth or even homemade stock as a flavorful alternative that keeps this dish vegetarian-friendly.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add more cheese to my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Of course! Feel free to add extra cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier treat.

Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These potatoes are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making them easy to reheat later.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes! They bring together comforting flavors and textures that make any gathering feel special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family!