French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe

If comfort had a flavor, it would surely taste like French Onion Funeral Potatoes. This supremely cozy casserole marries the creamy indulgence of hash brown potatoes with the savory depth of caramelized onions and the irresistible crunch of homemade fried onions. A heartwarming favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday tables, this dish is the epitome of home-cooked goodness. Every comforting bite contrasts silky, cheesy potatoes against crackling golden onions, making it impossible to have just one serving. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a nostalgic classic, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every spoonful of these French Onion Funeral Potatoes owes its rich flavor and texture to a group of humble yet essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the buttery base to the hearty potatoes and that show-stopping onion topping.

• Frozen cubed hash browns, thawed: These save time and ensure every bite is satisfyingly fluffy and tender, soaking up all that creamy sauce.
• Unsalted butter (for potatoes and sauce): Butter brings a velvety richness both to the potatoes and the sauce, tying all the flavors together.
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Cheddar melts beautifully, lending a tangy bite and gooey, golden finish.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the casserole irresistibly smooth.
• Small yellow onion, diced: Builds the deep, classic French onion flavor right into the sauce.
• Minced garlic: Gives a gentle, aromatic kick that amplifies the savoriness.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce so it envelops every potato cube.
• Kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors and balances the richness.
• Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth without being overpowering.
• Cayenne pepper: Gives a subtle kick; adjust to your preferred level of heat!
• Dried mustard: Enhances the cheesy sauce with a little extra sharpness.
• Chicken broth, room temperature: Infuses the casserole with savory depth and keeps it moist.
• Whole milk, room temperature: Helps make the sauce rich and creamy.
• Large yellow onions, thinly sliced: Essential for the crunchy, caramelized topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
• Vegetable oil: Used for frying the onions to crispy perfection; be sure to use fresh oil for best flavor.

How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Prep Your Dish and Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F so it’s hot and ready when you are. Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a quick mist of nonstick spray — this keeps your golden casserole from sticking and makes serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Up the Potato Layer

In a spacious bowl, bring together the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar, and sour cream. Give everything a good mix until it’s evenly combined and delightfully creamy. This is your base layer, and it already smells fantastic!

Step 3: Sauté and Whisk the Sauce

Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until soft — about 3 to 5 minutes — then add minced garlic for a minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, and mustard. Stir for a minute, then slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking steadily. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens into a velvety dream.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour your luscious sauce over the potato mixture and mix until evenly coated. Tip everything into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out into an inviting, creamy blanket.

Step 5: Bake the Potatoes

Slide the dish into the hot oven and let it bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the edges bubble and the top is starting to turn golden. Your kitchen will smell like happiness itself.

Step 6: Fry Up Those French Onion Funeral Potatoes Toppings

While your potatoes bake, line a baking sheet with a couple layers of paper towels for draining. Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan to 350°F and, working in small batches, carefully fry the sliced onions until they’re just beginning to turn pale gold (about 2 to 5 minutes). Fish them out with a slotted spoon and spread on the paper towels, sprinkling with salt while hot for maximum flavor. Repeat with the rest, making sure the oil comes back up to temperature between batches.

Step 7: Finish With the Crunchy Onions

Once your casserole is hot and bubbly, take it out of the oven and immediately shower the top with your freshly fried onions. Their crunch and caramelization are what set French Onion Funeral Potatoes apart, crowning your dish like a chef’s kiss.

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Garnishes

For a pop of color and freshness, try scattering chopped fresh chives, flat-leaf parsley, or a touch of cracked black pepper over the finished casserole. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar right before serving adds even more melty appeal.

Side Dishes

These potatoes are a perfect match for just about any main — think roasted chicken, ham, grilled sausages, or even a juicy steak. On the side, a crisp green salad or simple steamed green beans helps balance the richness and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning French Onion Funeral Potatoes into individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party twist, or bring the whole bubbling casserole straight to the table for a family-style wow moment. They also make a fantastic “leftover” brunch base: top reheated portions with fried or poached eggs for a breakfast everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Extra French Onion Funeral Potatoes keep beautifully in the fridge. Let the casserole cool completely, then cover the dish tightly or transfer leftovers to airtight containers. They’ll stay delicious for up to four days, and they’re just as dreamy reheated.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the potato and sauce layers (skip the fried onions for now), cover well with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, bake as directed, and add your freshly fried onions at the end so they stay crispy and light.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot all the way through, usually 20 to 25 minutes. If you’ve stored fried onions separately, scatter them on in the last 5 minutes to bring back their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Peel and chop your potatoes into small cubes, then par-cook or soak in cold water to remove excess starch. Make sure to pat them dry before mixing them in so the casserole stays perfectly creamy.

Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes spicy?

Only mildly! The cayenne pepper adds a very subtle warmth, but you can reduce or even omit it if you’re sensitive to spice. Likewise, feel free to boost it for a little extra zing.

What makes these “funeral potatoes”?

The term comes from their reputation as a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole often brought to gatherings and potlucks, especially after church services or family events. The “funeral” part is all about comfort, not sorrow — so feel free to serve them at any celebration.

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for your favorite vegetable broth. This way, you keep all the deep, savory flavors but make the dish meat-free.

What’s the secret to super crispy fried onions on top?

Slice the onions as thin as possible and make sure they’re fully separated before frying. Keep your oil at a consistent 350°F and don’t overcrowd the pan — a light, even fry is the secret to that addictive crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for classic comfort with a golden, gourmet twist, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes deliver in spades. There’s just something magical about creamy potatoes mingling with fragrant onions and a crown of crunchy goodness. Give them a try and watch them become a new favorite at every gathering!

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