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! These potatoes are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. The creamy texture and rich flavors make this dish a standout that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: Infused with sharp cheddar and seasoned with garlic and onions, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside any main course, these potatoes complement everything from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for feeding a large group, this recipe serves 12 people, making it perfect for parties or family dinners.
• Crispy Topping: The homemade crispy onion topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potato base.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation. Having everything at your fingertips will make your cooking experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for even baking and serving, ensuring all portions are uniform.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without creating a mess; they help keep your workspace organized.

Ingredients

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
– 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)
– 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 the oven is heating up, spray a 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 with melted butter.
2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until well mixed.
3. Add diced yellow onion, minced garlic, flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, chicken broth, and whole milk.
4. Mix everything together until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
2. In another bowl, combine thinly sliced onions with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Spread the onion mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Enjoy your French Onion Funeral Potatoes as a delightful side dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal!

How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are versatile and can enhance any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement their cheesy goodness.

As a Standalone Dish

• A simple salad – Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Roasted vegetables – Serve alongside seasonal roasted veggies to add color and nutrients.

With Protein

• Grilled chicken – The savory taste of grilled chicken balances well with the creamy potatoes.
• Beef or lamb roast – A hearty meat dish makes for a comforting meal when served with these potatoes.

For Gatherings

• At potlucks – These potatoes are crowd-pleasers, making them an excellent choice for gatherings.
• Holiday meals – Serve as a festive side dish during family celebrations for added warmth and flavor.

How to Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your French Onion Funeral Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Use thawed hash browns – Ensure your frozen cubed hash browns are fully thawed for even cooking and texture.
• Melt butter thoroughly – Melt the butter completely to mix evenly into your potato mixture for richer flavor.
• Season generously – Don’t skimp on the spices; they enhance the overall taste. Adjust according to your preference.
• Crispy onion topping – Fry onions until golden brown for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
• Let it rest – Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking to set properly before serving, ensuring easier slicing.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with French Onion Funeral Potatoes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the potatoes.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, creating a nice balance with cheesy flavors.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes, enhancing overall enjoyment.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob – Juicy corn on the cob brings sweetness and texture, perfect for summer meals or barbecues.
6. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans provide protein and a sweet-savory flavor that matches well with comfort foods like funeral potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you make the best French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the onions: This can lead to a burnt flavor. Sauté onions just until they are golden brown for the best taste.
• Using frozen hash browns straight from the freezer: This can result in uneven cooking. Always thaw your hash browns before using them.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland. Be sure to measure your salt and spices carefully for full flavor.
• Skipping the rest period: Cutting into the casserole too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect texture. Ensure your broth and milk are at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months; label with a date.

Reheating French Onion Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power; heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes that might help clarify your doubts.

Can I use different types of cheese for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Yes! You can mix and match cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavors.

How do I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

What can I serve with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes pair well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

How do I customize my French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or broccoli, or even switch out seasonings based on your preferences!

Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes bring delightful comfort food vibes with their cheesy goodness and crispy onion topping. This versatile dish is perfect for gatherings or as a cozy side at home. Experiment with different cheeses or seasonings to make it your own!