French Onion Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed; 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1.5 cups sour cream; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 0.5 teaspoon dried mustard; 0.5 cup chicken broth, room temperature; 0.5 cup whole milk, room temperature; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced ((about 4 cups onions)); 4 cups vegetable oil; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt

Introduction to French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic funeral potatoes, combining the comfort of creamy hash browns with the rich flavor of French onion soup. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making it a must-try for everyone who loves comforting food.

A Personal Story Behind My French Onion Funeral Potatoes Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered for special occasions, and one dish that always made an appearance was funeral potatoes. These cheesy, creamy potatoes became a staple at potlucks and family reunions. When I first tried a French onion twist on this beloved dish, it quickly became a favorite. The sweet, caramelized onions paired with the cheesy goodness felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and I knew I had to share this recipe with everyone.

What Makes This French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of flavors that come together beautifully. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich creaminess, while the sautéed onions bring a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Not to mention, the crispy fried onions on top provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy texture beneath. This casserole is not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories.

The Full French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

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
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
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, layers separated (about 4 cups onions)

4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until well combined. Set aside.

For the sauce, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard. Cook for about a minute, stirring continuously, then slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine the sauce with the potato mixture and pour it into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-browning.
While the casserole bakes, prepare the fried onions. Line a baking sheet with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sliced onions in batches until they are pale golden brown, about 2-5 minutes per batch. Remove the fried onions and place them on the lined baking sheet, sprinkling with a little kosher salt.

Once the casserole is done baking, sprinkle the fried onions evenly over the top for that perfect crunchy finish.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the potato mixture for added flavor and texture. You can also substitute the sharp cheddar with Gruyère cheese for a more gourmet touch. And for those who prefer a spicy kick, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option without sacrificing creaminess. You can also use cream cheese, but you may need to thin it out with a bit of milk.

Is it necessary to fry the onions for topping?
While fried onions add a delightful crunch, you can also use store-bought crispy onions as a shortcut. Alternatively, you can simply skip the topping if you prefer a softer texture.