French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Name: French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed); ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 ½ cups sour cream; 1 small yellow onion (diced); 2 teaspoons garlic (minced); ½ cup chicken broth; 4 large yellow onions (thinly sliced for topping)

Published: August 23, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The unique blend of sharp cheddar and caramelized onions elevates this dish to a new level of taste.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing side dish in no time.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday feasts, this dish pairs well with any main course.
Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping adds an irresistible crunch that complements the creamy potatoes.
Makes Plenty: This recipe serves 12 people, making it ideal for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make French Onion Funeral Potatoes efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here are some items you’ll need to gather before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Nonstick cooking spray
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Large skillet

Importance of Each Tool

9×13-inch baking dish: This size ensures even cooking and allows plenty of space for all ingredients.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling or making a mess.
Knife and cutting board: These tools help you prepare your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Base

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 Topping

2 large yellow onions, (thinly sliced, layers separated (about 4 cups onions))
4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula.

Step 4: Cook the Onions for Topping

In a large skillet:
1. Heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add thinly sliced onions along with kosher salt.
3. Cook until golden brown and crispy; this should take about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Top and Bake

After cooking the onions:
1. Evenly distribute them over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your French Onion Funeral Potatoes as a delightful side that will impress friends and family alike!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply having a cozy dinner at home, these cheesy potatoes are sure to please everyone. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Potluck Gatherings

Bring these creamy potatoes to your next potluck. They are always a hit and easy to share with others.

Holiday Celebrations

French Onion Funeral Potatoes make an excellent side dish for holiday feasts. Pair them with roasted turkey or ham for a festive touch.

Movie Night Snack

Enjoy these potatoes as a comforting snack during your favorite movie marathon. They are best served warm and gooey.

Brunch Buffet

Include French Onion Funeral Potatoes in your brunch spread. They complement eggs and fresh fruit beautifully.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

To make sure your French Onion Funeral Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these essential tips in mind.

Use thawed hash browns: Ensure your frozen hash browns are completely thawed for even cooking and texture.
Get the right cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for strong flavor contrast against the creamy base.
Don’t skip the onions: The caramelized onions add depth and sweetness that elevate this dish beyond ordinary casserole.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and cayenne to match your personal preference for spice.
Let it rest before serving: Allow the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to consider that will complement their rich flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, they add a crisp texture and earthy flavor.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the dish.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a bright, crunchy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer a hearty addition that complements the flavors well.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer gatherings.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness from your plate.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers provide a refreshing bite that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, meat, or veggies add variety and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the thawing step: It’s important to fully thaw the frozen hash browns before using them. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in your casserole.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and spices. Incorrect amounts can alter the flavor and texture of your dish.
Neglecting the onion preparation: Dicing and slicing onions properly enhances their flavor. Make sure to cut onions evenly for consistent cooking and sweetness.
Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your French Onion Funeral Potatoes while baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for a golden-brown topping without burning it.
Forgetting about seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful dish. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and other spices; they balance the richness of the cheese and potatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Freeze before baking for best results.
Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just remember to adjust cooking times if they are cold from the fridge or freezer.

What is the best way to customize my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up cheeses based on your preference. This recipe is versatile!

How do I know when my casserole is done?

Your French Onion Funeral Potatoes are ready when they are bubbly around the edges and have a golden-brown topping. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh onions will add more flavor but may require additional cooking time to caramelize properly before adding them to your potato mixture.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food. With their creamy texture and crispy onion topping, they make an excellent side dish for any occasion. Plus, this recipe allows plenty of room for customization—feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins! Try making this dish today; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

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