It all started when I found myself grappling with the endless cycle of fast food takeout, a routine that was draining both my spirit and my taste buds. In a quest to reignite my love for homemade comfort food, I stumbled upon a treasure tucked away in my recipe box: French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
Now, don’t let the name fool you! This dish is not just for somber occasions; it’s a celebration of flavors that warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas. Imagine creamy, cheesy potatoes intertwined with the sweetness of caramelized onions and topped with a crispy golden layer of fried onions—pure bliss in every bite.
As I prepared these luscious potatoes, memories of family gatherings flooded my mind—a true crowd-pleaser that appeals to everyone, from the pickiest eaters to gourmet chefs. Easy to make yet incredibly decadent, French Onion Funeral Potatoes are sure to have you ditching fast food for good and embracing the joy of home-cooked meals. Let’s dive into how you can make this delectable dish your new go-to comfort food!
Why are French Onion Funeral Potatoes a must-try?
Comfort in Every Bite: This recipe combines creamy potatoes with rich cheddar and sweet caramelized onions, creating a dish that’s warm and inviting.
Simplicity: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser without any fuss. Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!
Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or a casual family dinner, these potatoes elevate any meal.
Time-Saving: Bake it all in one dish, leaving you more time to enjoy with family and friends!
Crispy Delight: The fried onion topping adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base, making it hard to resist a second helping.
Embrace the joy of homemade cooking with this comforting recipe and discover why it’s a favorite at every table!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns – thawed for easy mixing and a hearty base.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter – melted to add richness and flavor to the dish.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese – shredded for that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave.
- 1 ½ cups sour cream – contributes creaminess and a tangy kick that brightens the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion – diced to bring a sweet, caramelized flavor throughout.
- 2 teaspoons garlic – minced for that aromatic depth and savory punch.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – to help thicken the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle warmth to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – for a gentle kick that elevates the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon dried mustard – gives an extra layer of flavor to the creamy mixture.
- ½ cup chicken broth – to bind everything together and enhance the savory notes.
- ½ cup whole milk – ensures a smooth and creamy texture that’s irresistible.
For the Fried Onion Topping
- 2 large yellow onions – thinly sliced (about 4 cups) to create that crispy, golden layer.
- 4 cups vegetable oil – for frying the onions to perfection without a greasy finish.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – used to season the fried onions for extra flavor.
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes will undoubtedly become your new favorite comfort food, enchanting everyone at your dinner table!
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure your casserole comes out easily.
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Combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream in a large bowl. Mix well to create a creamy potato base, then set aside.
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Melt ¼ cup butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will form a delicious base for your caramelized onions.
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Cook the diced onions for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing wonderful aromas.
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Stir in the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard. Cook this mixture for another minute to bloom the flavors beautifully.
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Whisk in the milk and chicken broth slowly, stirring continually until well combined. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and achieves a rich consistency.
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Mix the thickened sauce into the potato mixture and stir until evenly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden and bubbly on the edges!
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Prepare the fried onions while the casserole is baking. Line a large baking sheet with two layers of paper towels, setting aside to catch the excess oil later.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over high heat to 350°F, perfect for frying your onions!
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Fry about 1 cup of sliced onions in batches. Stir occasionally until they turn a pale golden brown, about 2-5 minutes.
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Remove the fried onions using a fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon, and place them in an even layer on the lined baking sheet. Set aside to cool and repeat with the remaining onions.
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Sprinkle the cooled fried onions with kosher salt, gently tossing to coat for extra flavor.
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Top your baked casserole with the fried onions evenly over the surface right after taking it out from the oven, allowing them to shine over your masterpiece.
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Serve hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the casserole in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven, covered, at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. This helps maintain the creaminess of the French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
Avoid Freezer Burn: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor.
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Variations
Feel free to play around with these ideas to make the recipe uniquely yours and exciting for your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy flavor boost.
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Veggie-Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color that makes your casserole even more delightful!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a zesty twist that will awaken your taste buds.
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Meaty Addition: Fold in cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a savory touch that transforms the casserole into a hearty main dish.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the onion mixture; it adds a fragrant touch that elevates every bite.
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Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for an extra kick or Gouda for a richer flavor profile; your taste buds will thank you!
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Crunchy Top: If you don’t have fried onions, try topping the casserole with crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
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Mini Portions: Make individual servings by dividing the casserole into ramekins; it’s a fun and charming way to serve this dish at parties or gatherings.
These twists and substitutions will help you create an even more irresistible version of your French Onion Funeral Potatoes!
Expert Tips for French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Perfect Texture: To ensure your hash browns remain fluffy, avoid over-mixing the potato mixture; a gentle fold is all you need.
- Onion Caramelization: Take your time when sautéing the onions; low and slow brings out their natural sweetness and prevents burning.
- Fried Onions: Maintain the oil’s temperature at 350°F while frying; this ensures crispy onions without greasy results.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to mix in different types of cheese! Gruyère or Monterey Jack can add unique flavors to your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it, baking it just before serving for time-saving convenience.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding fresh herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile of your dish; a sprinkle of thyme can be delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. Also, the fried onions can be prepared ahead of time—just fry and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for about 45-50 minutes until bubbly. Top it with your crispy fried onions right before serving for that delightful crunch, ensuring your dish is just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Imagine a table laden with vibrant colors and delightful aromas, perfectly complementing the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delectable dish.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a savory contrast, making every bite feel like a celebration.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers introduce a pop of color and balance the richness of the potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this classic side pairs wonderfully, allowing for delicious scooping of the cheesy potatoes.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing and croutons provides freshness and a refreshing crunch that lightens up the meal.
- Apple Sauce: A sweet and tangy contrast that adds a fruity note, creating a lovely balance with the savory casserole.
- Red Wine: A glass of smooth Merlot or a chilled Chardonnay can enhance the flavors beautifully and elevate your dining experience.
- Chocolate Cake: End on a sweet note! A rich, fudgy chocolate cake brings warmth and joy to any gathering, making it unforgettable.
Mix and match these delightful sides for an enchanting meal that turns each gathering into a heartwarming occasion!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! Frozen cubed hash browns are ideal for this recipe as they provide the perfect texture and are quick to prepare. Just make sure they are thawed beforehand to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
How should I store leftovers of French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, until warmed through and creamy!
Can I freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can easily freeze this dish! Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers, making sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
If the sauce doesn’t thicken after adding the milk and chicken broth, it may need a few more minutes of cooking. Keep whisking continuously over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce and cook until thickened.
Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes suitable for people with allergies?
It depends on individual dietary needs! This recipe contains dairy and may not be suitable for lactose intolerant individuals or those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free version, consider using vegan cheese and sour cream substitutes. Ensure all other ingredients, like broth, are free from allergens you’re concerned about, and always check labels!
How can I make this dish spicier or change the flavor profile?
If you’re looking to spice things up, adding more cayenne pepper or even some chopped jalapeños can give your French Onion Funeral Potatoes a kick! Additionally, mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even further, making your dish truly unique!
Irresistible French Onion Funeral Potatoes Casserole Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure your casserole comes out easily.
- Combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream in a large bowl. Mix well to create a creamy potato base, then set aside.
- Melt ¼ cup butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will form a delicious base for your caramelized onions.
- Cook the diced onions for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing wonderful aromas.
- Stir in the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard. Cook this mixture for another minute to bloom the flavors beautifully.
- Whisk in the milk and chicken broth slowly, stirring continually until well combined. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and achieves a rich consistency.
- Mix the thickened sauce into the potato mixture and stir until evenly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Prepare the fried onions while the casserole is baking. Line a large baking sheet with two layers of paper towels, setting aside to catch the excess oil later.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over high heat to 350°F, perfect for frying your onions!
- Fry about 1 cup of sliced onions in batches. Stir occasionally until they turn a pale golden brown, about 2-5 minutes.
- Remove the fried onions using a fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon, and place them in an even layer on the lined baking sheet. Set aside to cool and repeat with the remaining onions.
- Sprinkle the cooled fried onions with kosher salt, gently tossing to coat for extra flavor.
- Top your baked casserole with the fried onions evenly over the surface right after taking it out from the oven.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.