French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a comforting and cheesy casserole with a crispy, flavorful twist! Imagine a creamy potato filling infused with the savory flavors of French onion soup, topped with a generous layer of crispy fried onions. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any gathering where you want to bring a comforting and delicious side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich French onion sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Crispy Topping: The crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch and another layer of savory flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks and gatherings, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients

Potatoes

• Frozen cubed hash browns: A convenient and easy-to-use base for the casserole.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the potatoes.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Contributes a sharp and cheesy flavor.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy tanginess and helps to bind the ingredients.

Sauce

• Unsalted butter: Used to sauté the onions and create a roux for the sauce.
• Yellow onion: Provides a savory base and sweetness.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
• Kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard: Seasonings that add depth and complexity to the sauce.
• Chicken broth and whole milk: Form the base of the sauce.

Fried Onions

• Yellow onions: Thinly sliced and fried until golden brown and crispy.
• Vegetable oil: Used for frying the onions.
• Kosher salt: Seasons the fried onions.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Combine the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheese, and sour cream. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk until well combined. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour the sauce over the potato mixture and mix well. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.

Step 5: Make the Fried Onions

While the casserole is baking, prepare the fried onions. Line a baking sheet with paper towels. Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan to 350°F. Fry the thinly sliced onions in batches, about 1 cup at a time, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions with a slotted spoon or fine-mesh strainer and place them on the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain. Sprinkle the fried onions with salt.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and top with the crispy fried onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use thawed hash browns: Make sure the hash browns are thawed completely before using them in the recipe.
• Don’t overcook the onions: Cook the onions just until softened to prevent them from burning.
• Fry the onions in batches: Frying the onions in batches ensures that they cook evenly and become crispy.
• Keep the fried onions warm: If you fry the onions ahead of time, keep them warm in a low oven until ready to use.

How to Serve

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses:

• Holiday Meals: Serve them alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a special occasion meal.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering.
• Weeknight Dinners: Pair them with your favorite protein and vegetables for a complete and satisfying weeknight meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes can be made ahead of time or stored for leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole without the fried onions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Top with fresh fried onions before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns? Yes, you can! Peel and grate or finely dice the potatoes before using them in the recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses.

3. Can I make this recipe without the fried onions? Yes, you can! The casserole is still delicious without the fried onions, but they add a wonderful crunch and flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

This French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy potato filling, savory French onion sauce, and crispy fried onions, it’s sure to become a new favorite!

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