French Onion Potato Delight

This hearty French Onion Funeral Potatoes recipe transforms ordinary hash browns into a decadent, cheesy casserole topped with crispy homemade fried onions. A comforting twist on the classic funeral potatoes, this dish delivers incredible flavor that had everyone raving during testing.

I first served this at a family reunion last winter, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. The combination of sharp cheddar and crispy onions turned this humble potato casserole into something truly special that everyone now requests at every gathering.

Ingredients

• Frozen diced hash browns: Choose cubed rather than shredded for better texture and thaw completely
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the most flavor but feel free to use your favorite melting cheese
• Sour cream: Adds necessary creaminess and tanginess that balances the rich flavors
• Yellow onions: Naturally sweet and ideal for frying to golden perfection
• Butter: Creates the foundation for the creamy sauce that coats every potato
• Flour: Works as a thickener for the perfect sauce consistency
• Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce without making it too heavy
• Milk: Creates silky texture without being too rich
• Vegetable oil: With its neutral flavor and high smoke point makes it ideal for frying onions
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle flavor without overwhelming the dish
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:

Allow frozen hash browns to completely thaw then drain thoroughly on paper towels. Excess moisture will make your casserole watery, so take extra time here to ensure potatoes are dry.

Create the Sauce Base:

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until foamy. Add diced onion and cook for 8-10 minutes until soft and translucent but not browned. Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Sauce:

Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until raw flour smell disappears and mixture turns slightly golden. This creates the roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully.

Develop Creamy Texture:

Gradually whisk in chicken broth, allowing mixture to thicken between additions. Pour in milk slowly while continuing to whisk. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until sauce coats the back of a spoon.

Incorporate Cheese:

Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar until completely melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

Combine Components:

In a large bowl, mix thawed hash browns, the cheesy sauce, and sour cream until thoroughly combined. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 baking dish and spread evenly.

Fry the Onions:

Heat oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. Slice onions into thin rings and dredge in flour seasoned with salt. Fry in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Bake to Perfection:

Top potato mixture with remaining cheese and bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly around edges. Add crispy onions to the top and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until onions are golden and casserole is completely heated through.

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My grandmother taught me the secret to the best funeral potatoes is taking time to properly thaw and drain the hash browns. She would spread them on clean kitchen towels and press gently to remove every bit of moisture. Her careful technique made all the difference in achieving that perfect creamy texture without wateriness.

Make Ahead Instructions

These potatoes are perfect for busy holidays or when you need to feed a crowd. Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time. The fried onions can also be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe shines with sharp cheddar, feel free to experiment with cheese combinations for different flavor profiles. Try mixing in Gruyère for a more pronounced French onion taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. For the creamy component, plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for sour cream with added protein benefits. If you need a shortcut, store-bought crispy fried onions work well, though they lack the freshness and customized seasoning of homemade ones.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with simple protein dishes like roasted chicken or grilled steak. The rich cheesiness creates a wonderful contrast with fresh, crisp vegetables or a tangy salad dressed with vinaigrette. For holiday meals, serve alongside traditional favorites like green bean casserole and cranberry sauce. The dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for potlucks where it might sit in a warming tray.

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The Cultural Significance

Funeral potatoes earned their name from being a staple at post-funeral gatherings in Mormon communities across Utah and the Mountain West. The recipe evolved as a practical solution for feeding large groups during times of mourning. Comforting and easy to transport, these potatoes became synonymous with community support and care. This French onion variation continues that tradition while adding gourmet elements that elevate the humble casserole to special occasion status. The dish exemplifies how food brings people together during both celebrations and difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy potato casserole made with hash browns, a rich sauce, and topped with crispy fried onions.

→ Can I use store-bought fried onions?

Yes, store-bought crispy onions are a convenient option. Simply sprinkle them over the casserole before baking for an easy and crunchy topping.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its strong flavor. You can also mix and match cheeses that melt well for added depth.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Alternatively, freeze it for 2-3 months and thaw before baking.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave.