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 and celebrations, bringing comfort and joy to any table. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of creamy potatoes and sautéed onions creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday feasts, these potatoes complement any main course beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With generous servings, this recipe is great for feeding a group without breaking the bank.
• Comfort Food: Rich and hearty, this dish warms the soul and satisfies even the most discerning taste buds.

Tools and Preparation

To make French Onion Funeral Potatoes successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish provides ample space for layering your ingredients to create an even cook.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal of the casserole once baked.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the baking dish.
• Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their flavors before mixing them in.

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 prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Filling

In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, add thinly sliced onions. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Spread the crispy onions over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, remove from oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful French Onion Funeral Potatoes as a delightful side dish!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful side dish perfect for any gathering or family meal. Their creamy texture and crispy topping make them a crowd-pleaser. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a balanced plate.

Alongside a Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the dish.

As a Potluck Favorite

• Serve these potatoes at potlucks; they are sure to be a hit and encourage second helpings!

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies add color and nutrients, making your meal more vibrant and healthy.

Paired with Turkey Meatballs

• Tender turkey meatballs match well with the cheesy flavor, adding protein to your meal.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

To make your French Onion Funeral Potatoes truly exceptional, consider these tips. They will enhance flavor and texture while ensuring excellent results.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh onions and high-quality cheese will improve the overall taste of your dish.
• Thaw hash browns completely – Ensure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed for even cooking.
• Sauté onions properly – Cook onions until they are golden brown for maximum flavor in the crispy topping.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste the mixture before baking, adjusting salt and spices to suit your preference.
• Let them rest – Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes after baking to set up for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A light side that brings a healthy crunch and beautiful color to your plate.
2. Garlic Bread
   Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy goodness from your potatoes.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These flavorful sprouts add a nice contrast with their slightly bitter taste against the creamy potatoes.
4. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad offers tangy flavors that balance out the richness of the casserole.
5. Coleslaw
   The crispness of coleslaw provides texture, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing French Onion Funeral Potatoes, some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using frozen hash browns without thawing – Always thaw your hash browns before cooking. This helps achieve the perfect texture and ensures even cooking.
• Skipping the proper seasoning – Don’t forget to season your mixture adequately. Adding kosher salt and spices enhances flavor, making your dish more appealing.
• Overcooking the topping – Keep an eye on the crispy onion topping. If you cook it too long, it can burn and ruin the flavor of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
• Not using room temperature ingredients – Using cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Ensure your chicken broth and milk are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• Neglecting to spray the baking dish – A well-greased baking dish prevents sticking and allows for easy serving. Always use nonstick spray or butter generously.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• You can freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of cheese in French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Yes, feel free to substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile!

How do I make my French Onion Funeral Potatoes extra creamy?

For creamier potatoes, consider adding more sour cream or cream cheese into the mix before baking.

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh green salad for balance.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just a side dish; they offer comfort and warmth at any gathering. With their cheesy goodness and crispy onion topping, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Feel free to customize them with additional herbs, spices, or even vegetables of your choice!