If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy textures with irresistibly crispy onions, then the French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic casserole boasts tender hash browns smothered in a rich, savory sauce infused with caramelized onions and sharp cheddar cheese, all crowned with golden, crunchy fried onions. It’s the ultimate potluck favorite and transforms simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying dish that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its humble but essential ingredients, each one playing a vital role to balance creaminess, flavor, and crunch. From the hearty potatoes that provide substance, to the smooth sour cream for richness, and the sharp cheddar cheese adding a tangy bite, every element works together in perfect harmony.
- Frozen cubed hash browns: Using thawed hash browns saves time and ensures a tender potato foundation.
- Unsalted butter: Butter brings richness and helps create a luscious sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the casserole.
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the dish.
- Yellow onion (diced for sauce): Builds depth with a subtle sweetness when cooked down.
- Garlic: Gives the sauce an aromatic lift and savory punch.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for the perfect creamy texture.
- Kosher salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering.
- Black pepper and cayenne pepper: Add warmth and a gentle kick.
- Dried mustard: Introduces a subtle tang that complements the cheese.
- Chicken broth: Provides savory depth and moisture to the sauce.
- Whole milk: Ensures the sauce remains smooth and creamy.
- Yellow onions (for frying): Thinly sliced to achieve unbeatable crispy topping.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying onions until golden and crunchy.
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and spraying a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Combine Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns with melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This blend creates a creamy and cheesy base that makes every bite so comforting and satisfying.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the diced onions until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook it for a minute to release its wonderful aroma. Next, whisk in flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard to create a flavorful roux. Slowly add chicken broth and whole milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens into a smooth, rich mixture.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the thickened sauce over your potato mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer the cheesy, saucy concoction into your prepared baking dish and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a beautiful golden top—that’s when you know it’s ready.
Step 5: Fry Onions
While your casserole bakes, it’s time to tackle the crispy fried onions. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (177°C) in a saucepan and fry thinly sliced onion layers in batches until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Drain the onions on paper towels and sprinkle with a touch of kosher salt to enhance their flavor.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Once your casserole is perfectly baked, take it out of the oven and generously top it with those irresistible fried onions. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful contrast between creamy potatoes and crunchy onions.
How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich casserole. A light dusting of extra shredded cheddar cheese just before serving adds extra cheesiness if you like.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli, and roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken. The creamy texture and deep flavors of the potatoes complement almost any main dish beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve portions in individual ramekins topped with fried onions and garnish. You can also try layering the casserole with caramelized onions inside for even more onion flavor. This recipe is versatile and can easily steal the show at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover French Onion Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for delicious next-day servings.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and place in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. To revive the crunchy topping, add a few extra fried onions on top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely, but frozen hash browns save time and provide consistent texture. If using fresh, peel and cube potatoes, then parboil until just tender before mixing.
Is there a vegetarian version of the sauce?
Yes, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. The flavor remains rich and delicious.
How spicy is this dish with cayenne pepper?
The cayenne powder adds just a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without making the dish spicy. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I prepare the fried onions ahead of time?
Yes, fried onions can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their crunch well if kept dry.
What cheese substitutions work well in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt nicely.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe is your new go-to. With its luscious layers of creamy potatoes, cheesy sauce, and crispy onion topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners and celebrations. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Onion Funeral Potatoes recipe is a comforting and flavorful casserole featuring crispy fried onions, tender hash browns, a creamy cheese and sour cream mixture, and a rich homemade onion sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday meals, it combines creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures for an irresistible side dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 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
Sauce
- 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
Fried Onions
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, layers separated (about 4 cups onions)
- 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly to blend all the ingredients evenly. Set this mixture aside.
- Make the Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Add the diced small yellow onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard, stirring constantly to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth. Cook until thickened, stirring often to avoid lumps or burning.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the thickened sauce over the potato mixture and stir well to evenly coat all ingredients. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
- Fry Onions: While the casserole bakes, prepare the fried onions. Line a baking sheet with paper towels. Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan to 350°F (177°C) using a thermometer. Working in batches, fry the thinly sliced onions until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried onions to the paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt while still warm.
- Top and Serve: After baking is complete, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and immediately top it with the freshly fried onions. Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for crispy fried onions without burning.
- The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat; adjust quantity to taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated covered in the oven for best results.
