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 simply as a comforting family meal. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of cheese and onions makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and caramelized onions creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this dish can be made quickly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a side for family dinners.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or any main course for a complete meal.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping adds an exceptional crunch that elevates the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment can save you time and ensure better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking of the casserole and provides ample space for all ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your mixture.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions to bring out their natural sweetness before adding them to the casserole.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes:

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

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Step 4: Make the Crispy Onion Topping

While the casserole is baking, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Fry them until they turn deep golden brown and crispy. Remove them from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Once your casserole is baked through, remove it from the oven. Top with crispy fried onions just before serving for an extra crunch!

Enjoy these flavorful French Onion Funeral Potatoes as a side dish that will surely impress your guests!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. Their creamy texture and crispy topping make them versatile for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Comfort Food

• Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the potatoes.
• Serve alongside roasted chicken for a hearty dinner.

At Gatherings

• Present in a large dish at potlucks; they are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Offer as part of a buffet spread with other casseroles and side dishes.

For Family Dinners

• Serve hot from the oven for maximum flavor and crunch.
• Accompany with bread rolls or garlic bread for a complete meal.

On Special Occasions

• Make it a centerpiece side for holidays like Thanksgiving or family reunions.
• Pair with grilled meats to complement the cheesy flavor.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

To achieve the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes, consider these essential tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and quality cheese will elevate the flavor profile.
• Thaw hash browns properly: Ensure they are completely thawed for even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before baking and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Crispy topping: Fry the onions until golden brown for added texture and flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair well with many side dishes that complement their creamy richness. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that balance well.
3. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide brightness to the meal.
4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crispness that contrasts nicely with the potatoes.
5. Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing side that cuts through the creaminess.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the overall flavors with its natural sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your French Onion Funeral Potatoes even better.

• Skipping the thawing process: It’s essential to thaw your frozen hash browns before using them. This ensures even cooking and prevents a soggy texture.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Make sure to measure all ingredients, particularly the cheese and flour, for consistent results.

• Overcooking the onions: When sautéing onions, aim for translucent rather than browned. Overcooked onions can overpower the dish’s flavor.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to preference for a more personalized flavor profile.

• Using low-quality oil for frying: A good vegetable oil can enhance the crispiness of your onion topping. Invest in a quality oil for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

You can certainly experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere for varied flavors!

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Opt for dairy-free cream alternatives and cheese substitutes to create a delicious dairy-free version of French Onion Funeral Potatoes.

What should I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair well with roasted chicken, turkey, or any beef dish, making them a versatile side!

How can I customize my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or mix in proteins such as cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal!

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are not only rich in flavor but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at gatherings or enjoying them as comfort food at home, this recipe is sure to please. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Try it out today!