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 dish is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is sure to become a favorite on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and sautéed onions creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with roasted chicken or beef for a hearty meal, or serve it at brunch alongside eggs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe makes enough to serve 12 people, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch pan is perfect for even cooking and easy serving.
• Frying Pan: Ideal for sautéing onions to develop their sweet flavor before adding them to the casserole.

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 your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

1. In a frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients for Casserole

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed onions and garlic.
2. Add flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk.
3. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 5: Make Crispy Onion Topping

1. In another frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add thinly sliced onions in batches and fry until golden brown.
3. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels; sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the assembled casserole in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes until bubbly.
2. Remove from oven; top with crispy fried onions immediately before serving.

Now you have an amazing side dish of French Onion Funeral Potatoes that everyone will be raving about! Enjoy!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be served in various delightful ways. This versatile dish pairs well with many meals, making it a favorite for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Cozy Family Dinner

• Serve alongside a roasted chicken for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Holiday Feast

• Pair with your holiday turkey or ham substitute, creating a rich and festive plate.

Potluck Favorite

• Bring this dish to potlucks as it’s always a crowd-pleaser and easy to share.

Brunch Delight

• Enjoy as part of a hearty brunch spread with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Movie Night Snack

• Use as a cheesy side during movie night, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Perfecting your French Onion Funeral Potatoes ensures that every bite is rich in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and high-quality cheese will enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference; less for mild heat, more for extra kick!

• Achieve Crispy Onions: Fry the onions until golden brown for a crunchy topping that adds texture to each serving.

• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that complement French Onion Funeral Potatoes perfectly. Each option adds variety and flavor to your table.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring freshness and balance.

2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the potatoes, providing a refreshing contrast.

3. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds another layer of texture alongside creamy potatoes.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These mini cabbages roasted to perfection add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cheesy dish.

5. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for excellent dipping into the cheesy goodness.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Add some protein with stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and either ground beef or turkey for heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing French Onion Funeral Potatoes, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the onions: Properly sauté your onions until they are translucent but not burnt. This enhances flavor without bitterness.
• Using frozen hash browns directly: Always thaw your hash browns first to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture in your casserole.
• Skipping seasoning: Make sure to season each layer of the dish. It enhances the overall flavor and makes it more enjoyable.
• Not allowing for resting time: Letting your casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
• Ignoring the cheese quality: Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best taste. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can alter texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a cheesy potato casserole featuring a crispy onion topping, perfect for gatherings or comforting meals.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they come straight from the fridge.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to customize with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.

Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! They freeze well, making them great for meal prep. Just remember to thaw before reheating for best results.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses or toppings based on your preference. This dish is perfect for any gathering, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its cozy flavors!