Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is much more than just cooking; it’s an embrace of comfort and nostalgia. I’m Sophie, and I remember the first time I was introduced to this delightful dish at a potluck after my grandma’s funeral. It was strange to eat something associated with such a sad event, but it’s rich and creamy goodness lit up the room and brought smiles amidst the tears. The layers of flavor—the sharp cheddar mingling with the sweet caramelized onions—created a magical experience that warmed our hearts. Here, I’ll share my take on this beloved dish that combines classic comfort with my culinary twists. Let’s dive into these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed Provides a hearty texture.
- ½ stick unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and moisture.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded The star ingredient.
- 1 ½ cups sour cream Makes the dish creamy.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced Sautéed to sweeten.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced Elevates the dish.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour Helps create a smooth sauce.
- to taste kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, dried mustard For seasoning.
- 1 cup chicken broth, room temperature Adds moisture.
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature Blends seamlessly.
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced For the crispy topping.
- ½ cup vegetable oil For frying the onions.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar, and sour cream. Stir well.
- In a skillet, sauté the diced onion in a bit of butter until caramelized, then add it to the mixture along with flour, spices, chicken broth, and milk. Mix until well blended.
- For the topping, thinly slice the two large yellow onions. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and fry the onions until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and top generously with fried onions.
- Bake in the oven until golden brown and bubbly, about 45 minutes.
Serving
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to help set the layers.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and freshness.
Notes
Nutrition
Table of Contents
The Story Behind French Onion Funeral Potatoes
This dish has a special place in my heart and is tied to so many cherished moments. French Onion Funeral Potatoes capture the essence of gathering together, sharing laughter and stories. You know those recipes that feel like a hug in a dish? This is one of them. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you need a simple side for dinner or something comforting to bring to a family gathering. Whenever I prepare this dish, I think back to the delightful conversations and laughter shared over it.
The true beauty of French Onion Funeral Potatoes lies in the flavors that elevate a humble ingredient list into something extraordinary. You’ll find hash browns as the base, combined with sharp cheddar and creamy sour cream. But it’s the addition of caramelized onions that truly makes the dish shine, imparting a deep, sweet flavor that echoes the warmth of shared meals. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe; you can add in your favorite herbs or even a dash of spice to make it your own.
The recipe itself is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. It’s this simplicity coupled with its versatility that makes French Onion Funeral Potatoes an enduring favorite in kitchens across America. So, let’s get into the specifics of what makes this dish not just palatable but memorable.
If you love hearty comfort food that brings warmth to the table, you’ll also enjoy my creamy mushroom chicken — another dish that wraps you in cozy, familiar flavors.
The Ingredients That Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes Irresistible
You’ll need some essential ingredients to whip up French Onion Funeral Potatoes, starting with 32 ounces of frozen cubed hash browns, which you should thaw beforehand. These provide a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the creaminess. Next, you’ll need half a stick of unsalted butter, melted. Butter adds richness and moisture to the dish, enhancing each bite.
Alternatively, for a smoother texture, you might enjoy trying our creamy mashed potatoes recipe. It’s another great way to capture that same cozy, buttery satisfaction.
Sharp cheddar cheese is the real star here; you’ll want about 2 cups of it, shredded to melt beautifully into the potatoes. Don’t forget the sour cream—1 ½ cups add creaminess, making the dish luscious. You’ll also need diced onions; take a small yellow onion and sauté it to develop a sweet flavor. Garlic is essential too; 2 teaspoons minced will elevate your dish.
Don’t overlook the seasoning. A quarter cup of all-purpose flour helps create a smooth sauce, while kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, and dried mustard contribute layers of flavor. To add moisture and richness, use chicken broth and whole milk—both at room temperature—so they blend seamlessly into the mix. For the crispy topping, we’ll need more sliced onions and vegetable oil for frying.
It all comes together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring comfort to your table. Each layer adds a unique flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Each ingredient adds a special touch, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply comforting. If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy sides, you’ll love my cheesy garlic potatoes gratin, another irresistible potato-based favorite.
The Prep Work for Perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Let’s get started with the preparation! First, preheat your oven to 350°F, and while it warms up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures that your French Onion Funeral Potatoes come out perfectly without any sticking.
Start with the potatoes: in a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, sharp cheddar, and sour cream. Stir it well to make sure everything is evenly coated. Now, in a skillet, sauté the diced onion in a bit of butter until it’s caramelized, then add it to the mixture along with flour, spices, chicken broth, and milk. Mix everything until you have a well-blended potato mixture.
Next up, for the crispy onion topping, thinly slice your two large yellow onions. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and fry those onions until golden brown. Drain the crispy onions on paper towels to absorb excess oil. When ready, transfer your potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and top it generously with the fried onions. This will create a beautiful crunch when baked.
You’re now ready to bake! Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake until it turns golden brown and bubbly—this usually takes about 45 minutes. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone wandering in for a taste.Love that crispy onion flavor? You’ll definitely want to try my Parmesan crusted onion rings — they make an amazing snack or side dish.
Serving and Enjoying French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Once your French Onion Funeral Potatoes are perfectly baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Allowing them to rest helps set the layers, making serving easier. These potatoes are the perfect side for your favorite meats, pair deliciously with roast chicken, or can be enjoyed on their own as a hearty vegetarian dish.
When ready to serve, spoon generous portions onto each plate. I love to garnish mine with fresh herbs like chives or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness against the creamy backdrop of the potatoes.
They also go perfectly with my Texas Roadhouse smothered chicken, a creamy, savory companion that’s always a hit at family dinners. For a truly indulgent pairing, try serving it alongside short rib ragu with Parmesan mashed potatoes.
There’s a beautiful communal aspect to sharing French Onion Funeral Potatoes, inviting your loved ones to gather around the table. Each helping brings not just a taste sensation but a connection to shared stories and sentiments. As you savor the flavors, remember this dish’s roots in gatherings and celebrations—it’s food for the soul.
FAQ Section
What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a comforting casserole made with hash browns, cheese, sour cream, and caramelized onions.
Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Are there variations for French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can swap in different cheeses, add vegetables, or mix in bacon for added flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a delightful fusion of comfort and flavor, offering warmth and familiarity to any table. Whether you’re serving them at a special gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely become a new favorite. Don’t shy away from making it your own—experiment with spices, add your twist, and enjoy every creamy, crispy bite. And if you’re craving even more cozy creations, explore more comforting family recipes on AirFryerJoy.com for dishes that bring joy and togetherness to your kitchen.
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