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 stands out as a comforting side that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and caramelized onions adds a unique flavor that elevates traditional potatoes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serving up to 12 people, this dish is ideal for parties and family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these French Onion Funeral Potatoes with meats or serve them alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for evenly baking the potatoes while providing enough room for all ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before transferring to the baking dish, ensuring even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

To create these savory French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll need:

For the Potato Mixture

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

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the 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 milk. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

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

Step 4: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

In a frying pan over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Add thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Cook until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Once the onions are crispy, sprinkle them over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes! This comforting side dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful side dish perfect for gatherings and family dinners. Their creamy, cheesy texture paired with crispy onions makes them irresistible! Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken adds a savory touch that complements the richness of the potatoes.

As a Side to Beef Roast

• The hearty flavors of a beef roast pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of French Onion Funeral Potatoes, creating a delicious contrast.

Accompanying Turkey

• Serve alongside roasted turkey for a festive meal that combines rich flavors and comforting sides.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole, making for a well-rounded meal.

Complementing Vegetable Skewers

• Pair these potatoes with colorful vegetable skewers for a vibrant plate that satisfies both flavor and visual appeal.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in French Onion Funeral Potatoes is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use thawed hash browns: Make sure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed for even cooking and optimal creaminess.
• Opt for sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Cook onions until golden: Sauté your diced onions until they turn golden brown; this caramelization brings out their natural sweetness.
• Don’t rush the baking: Allow sufficient time in the oven so that flavors meld together beautifully while achieving that perfect golden topping.
• Adjust seasoning as desired: Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or cayenne levels according to your taste preferences for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with French Onion Funeral Potatoes can create a well-balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch that balances out the creamy potatoes.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These savory sprouts provide a slightly bitter contrast, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

3. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons to the table.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli offers vibrant color and nutrients alongside the rich potatoes.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of French Onion Funeral Potatoes and makes for a fun side option.

6. Garlic Breadsticks
   These cheesy, buttery breadsticks provide an extra indulgent element that pairs perfectly with potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing French Onion Funeral Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the thawing step – Not allowing the frozen hash browns to thaw can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to thaw them before mixing.
• Using low-fat dairy products – Opting for low-fat sour cream or milk may lead to a less creamy texture. Use full-fat versions for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the onions – Cooking the onions too long can make them bitter. Sauté until they are just translucent for a sweeter taste.
• Ignoring seasoning – Failing to season adequately can make the dish bland. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and spices; they enhance the overall flavor.
• Not packing down the mixture – If you don’t pack the potato mixture into the baking dish, it may not hold together well. Press it down firmly before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store French Onion Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

Can I use different types of cheese for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Yes, feel free to experiment with various cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and ensuring all other ingredients are plant-based.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional cheesy potato casseroles. Their creamy texture and crispy onion topping make them a hit at any gathering. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Give this comforting side dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!