French Onion Funeral Potatoes

French Onion Funeral Potatoes turn the classic cheesy potato casserole into an unforgettable crowd-pleaser with luxurious caramelized onion flavors and a crunchy homemade fried onion topping. I reach for this recipe whenever I need something comforting yet a little elevated for friends and family gatherings.

I first made this recipe for a Sunday potluck and it instantly disappeared my neighbor asked for the recipe before she even finished her second helping.

Ingredients

• Frozen cubed hash browns: making it quick and saving prep time choose high-quality with no ice crystals
• Unsalted butter: giving richness throughout choose fresh high-fat butter for best taste
• Sharp cheddar cheese: bold cheesy flavor shred your own for maximum melt
• Sour cream: brings irresistible tang and creaminess look for full-fat for the creamiest texture
• Yellow onions: the key to both sauce depth and crispy topping go for firm bright onions
• Fresh garlic: infuses passion and aroma mince just before cooking for best flavor
• All-purpose flour: thickens sauce for perfect casserole structure sift for lump-free mixing
• Kosher salt and black pepper: essential seasonings adjust to taste
• Cayenne pepper and dried mustard: subtle heat plus savoriness round out the flavor profile
• Chicken broth: binds and flavors the sauce homemade or low-sodium is best
• Whole milk: lends creamy richness always use room temperature milk to prevent curdling
• Vegetable oil: ensures crispy golden fried onions pick neutral oil like canola or sunflower

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Spray a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later

Mix the Potato Base:

In a large bowl combine thawed hash browns melted butter shredded cheese and sour cream Mix until every potato cube is well coated and creamy Set aside while you make the sauce

Make the French Onion Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat Add diced onion and let cook gently stirring often for three to five minutes until soft Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute to soften and release fragrance

Add the Seasoning and Flour:

Sprinkle in flour salt pepper cayenne and dried mustard Stir the mixture and cook it out for a minute to remove any raw flour taste

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Slowly pour in milk and chicken broth whisking constantly for a smooth texture Keep whisking and let the sauce bubble until it thickens slightly This usually takes a couple minutes

Combine Everything:

Pour the thickened sauce over the cheesy potato mixture in your bowl Stir everything together so every piece is coated then tip the whole mix into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly

Bake the Casserole:

Place in a three hundred fifty degree oven and bake for forty five to fifty minutes until everything is bubbling and piping hot

Fry the Crispy Onions:

Meanwhile heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan to three hundred fifty degrees Slice onions thin and separate the layers Fry in batches watching closely and stirring as needed Remove onions as soon as they turn pale golden and drain well on paper towels Sprinkle with salt while still hot for maximum stick

Top and Serve:

Once casserole is baked sprinkle all your crispy fried onions over top for a dramatic finish Let cool just a few minutes before serving so it sets slightly

Save

Sharp cheddar is my favorite part of the dish even picky eaters flock to its bold flavor I have countless memories of my family racing to snag the crispiest onions off the top before the rest got a bite

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before refrigerating Cover tightly and keep in the fridge up to four days When reheating add a fresh handful of fried onions right before serving to bring back the crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out cheddar for another flavorful cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyere If using fresh potatoes cube and parboil them first For a vegetarian take use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with roast meats barbecue or a crisp green salad I love offering it alongside glazed ham at the holidays or bringing it to big brunch gatherings

Cultural Context

Funeral potatoes are a beloved dish in many midwestern and mountain west communities known for comforting those in need with generosity and warmth The French onion spin celebrates caramelized onions for extra depth meeting the roots of classic comfort food

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Frozen cubed hash browns are ideal as they save prep time and bake up tender and flavorful in the casserole.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance. Add the fried onions just before baking to keep them crispy.

→ How do I get onions perfectly crispy?

Slice onions thinly, separate the layers, and fry in hot oil at 350°F in batches until pale golden brown for the best crunch.

→ Are there substitutions for cheddar cheese?

Yes, any sharp melting cheese such as Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can be used for varied flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to create a fully vegetarian casserole.