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 potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners. Its warm, creamy texture and rich flavor will make it a favorite at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for cooks of any level.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and caramelized onions creates a rich, comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these potatoes with chicken, beef, or vegetable dishes for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, French Onion Funeral Potatoes fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To make French Onion Funeral Potatoes successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Nonstick spray
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for evenly cooking your casserole and ensuring it feeds a crowd.
• Mixing bowls: A must-have for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions to achieve that sweet caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 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 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. While it’s heating up, spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add diced onions.
2. Sauté until they are soft and caramelized.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and milk.
4. Mix well until everything is combined thoroughly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
2. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced onions and sprinkle with salt.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 50 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
3. Top with crispy fried onions during the last ten minutes of baking.

Now you have delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes ready to impress at your next meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not just a delicious side dish; they can also be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether for a family gathering or a weeknight dinner, these creamy and cheesy potatoes will delight your guests.

Casual Gatherings

• Buffet Style: Serve the casserole in the baking dish for guests to help themselves. This works well for potlucks and casual dinners.
• Family-Style: Transfer the potatoes to a large serving bowl and let everyone scoop out their portions at the table.

Pair with Proteins

• Roasted Chicken: The savory flavor of roasted chicken pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy potatoes.
• Grilled Turkey Burgers: A lighter option that complements the creaminess of the potatoes while adding a smoky flavor.

Add Freshness

• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly steamed can enhance your plate’s colors and nutritional value.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

To make your French Onion Funeral Potatoes truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Thawed Hash Browns: Ensure your hash browns are completely thawed to achieve even cooking and avoid excess moisture.
• Melt Butter Properly: Melt butter gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to prevent it from burning, which can affect the dish’s flavor.
• Layer Cheese Generously: For extra cheesiness, add more sharp cheddar cheese between layers of potatoes and on top before baking.
• Crisp Onions Just Right: Fry onions until golden brown but not burnt. This gives a delightful crunch without overwhelming the flavors.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps set the dish and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cayenne and mustard according to your taste preferences for more heat or tanginess.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

When planning a meal with French Onion Funeral Potatoes, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds a healthy crunch.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey bring balance to the savory flavors of the potatoes.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite of cheesy goodness.
4. Baked Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil provide both texture and flavor depth.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds nutrition and color to your plate.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser that complements rich dishes like French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your French Onion Funeral Potatoes experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Frozen Hash Browns Directly: Ensure you thaw the hash browns first. Cooking them while frozen can result in uneven texture.
• Skipping the Cheese Layer: Don’t forget the cheese topping! Adding enough cheese is key to achieving that creamy, delicious flavor.
• Overbaking the Dish: Watch your cook time closely. If you overbake, the potatoes can become dry and lose their creaminess.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Be generous with your seasonings. Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland, so ensure you incorporate enough salt and spices.
• Inconsistent Potato Size: Cut your ingredients into uniform sizes. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Use an airtight container or freezer bag for freezing.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place on medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently 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 topped with crispy onions, combining comfort food flavors with a delightful twist.

Can I Customize My French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses or vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to suit your taste.

How Do I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

For a dairy-free version of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, substitute sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.

What Can I Serve With French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair well with roasted chicken or beef dishes and make a great side for any family gathering.

Can I Use Fresh Onions Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?

Yes, fresh potatoes can be used; just ensure they are cooked properly before assembling the casserole.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer a comforting blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows for many customization options, whether you’re adding extra veggies or trying different cheeses. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it could become your new favorite side dish!