French Onion Funeral Potatoes
If you’re looking for a comfort food dish that steals the show, let me introduce you to my beloved French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole, featuring a crispy onion topping that makes every bite irresistible. It’s the perfect side for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and trust me, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table too!
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only easy to prepare but they also deliver big flavor. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness with that satisfying crunch from the onions on top—pure bliss! Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or just for a cozy night in, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple steps and quick prep, this dish comes together effortlessly.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy potatoes and crispy onions!
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
- Comforting flavor: The blend of cheese and sautéed onions creates a warm, inviting taste that feels like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for these French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a breeze! You’ll find all the wholesome staples you need right in your kitchen. 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 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
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it based on what you have or your personal taste preferences. Here are a few fun variations:
- Add some veggies: Mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutrient boost.
- Spice it up: Toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Cheese swap: Try using different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist!
- Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten up the flavors.
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown topping. While that’s heating up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray so your delicious creation doesn’t stick!
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the additional butter and add the diced yellow onion along with minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant—this brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish!
Step 3: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, sautéed onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together until well mixed. This combination creates that creamy base we all love!
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Pour that delicious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now comes the fun part—top with thinly sliced onions! Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt over them before baking.
Step 5: Fry Those Onions
In another pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot enough for frying (you can test with a small piece of onion), carefully fry those onion slices until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels before placing them atop your casserole.
Step 6: Final Bake
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner!
And there you have it—delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes ready to enjoy! Serve them warm alongside your favorite main dishes or as part of a hearty potluck spread. Happy cooking!
Pro Tips for Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!
-
Thaw your hash browns thoroughly: Ensuring your frozen cubed hash browns are fully thawed helps achieve a creamy texture. If they’re still icy, the casserole may become watery during baking.
-
Use freshly shredded cheese: Opting for freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese rather than pre-packaged can enhance the flavor and meltability. Freshly shredded cheese tends to melt better and provides a creamier consistency.
-
Don’t rush the onions: When sautéing the onions, take your time! A slow cook will caramelize them beautifully, adding sweetness and depth to your casserole. This step is key for that authentic French onion flavor.
-
Consider adding herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or chives before serving. They add freshness and color that complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
-
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven lets it set up nicely. This way, you’ll get clean slices when serving!
How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes
French Onion Funeral Potatoes make a wonderful centerpiece for any meal, providing comfort and indulgence. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish:
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness with each bite.
- Crumbled crispy onions: For an extra crunch, top with store-bought crispy fried onions just before serving. They bring that familiar onion flavor and a satisfying texture.
Side Dishes
-
Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add nutrition and a lovely sweetness that balances the richness of the potatoes.
-
Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy potatoes.
-
Grilled chicken or tofu: Offering protein options such as grilled chicken breast or marinated tofu complements the casserole beautifully without overpowering its flavors.
-
Steamed broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also offers a nutritious side that pairs well with cheesy comfort food.
Enjoy serving these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes at your next gathering! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only delicious but also make for an excellent meal prep option! You can prepare them ahead of time, making your gatherings and busy weeknights a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Ensure the dish is completely cooled before freezing.
- Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
- Remove foil during the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.
FAQs
If you have any questions about making these delightful potatoes, you’re in the right place!
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Simply peel, dice, and cook them until tender before mixing them into the casserole. Adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I substitute for sour cream in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar tanginess while keeping the creaminess intact.
How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will ensure that everyone can enjoy this tasty dish!
Final Thoughts
I really hope you enjoy making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes as much as I do! They’re perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and share it with your loved ones—there’s nothing like a good home-cooked meal to create lasting memories!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, a mouthwatering twist on the classic cheesy potato casserole. This easy-to-make dish features creamy hash browns blended with rich cheddar cheese and savory sautéed onions, all topped with a delightful crispy onion layer. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, these potatoes are sure to become a beloved staple at your table. With their irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, each bite will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- All-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- In a large bowl, mix thawed hash browns, sautéed onions, cheddar cheese, sour cream, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, and milk until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the onion slices until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels before adding them on top of the casserole.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
