There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish that effortlessly combines nostalgia with flavor, and French Onion Funeral Potatoes do just that. The moment you pull this cheesy, golden-brown casserole from the oven, the aroma of rich caramelized onions and melted cheese envelops your kitchen, instantly drawing everyone in. These potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a comforting embrace on a chilly evening or a delightful crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.
I first encountered this delectable dish at a potluck party, where it stole the spotlight amid a sea of offerings. Imagine creamy, seasoned potatoes layered beneath a crunchy topping of crispy fried onions—pure heaven! Perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty yet hassle-free, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes can easily be customized to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in some homemade comfort, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and whip up this delightful creation together!
Why love French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Heartwarming nostalgia: This dish combines rich flavors and cherished memories, making every bite a comforting reminder of home.
Cheesy delight: Melted cheese blends perfectly with seasoned potatoes, creating an indulgent experience that appeals to all ages.
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients, this hassle-free recipe comes together quickly, making it the perfect choice for busy evenings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or family dinners; it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy your guests.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like bacon or extra spices for an added twist—endless possibilities await!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
• You’ll love how these components come together for a cozy meal!
For the Potatoes
- Frozen Hash Browns – The base of this dish; opt for shredded for a delightful texture.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess; can substitute with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
- Sour Cream – Provides tanginess; Greek yogurt can work as a healthier substitute.
- Shredded Cheese – Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a melty, cheesy experience.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; you can adjust the amount based on taste preferences.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; always adjust to your liking.
For the Topping
- French Fried Onions – The star topping; adds a satisfying crunch and enhances that classic French onion flavor.
- Paprika – A hint of spice; sprinkle for added color and taste for an extra kick.
Now that you have all these ingredients ready, you’re just a step away from creating a heavenly side dish that will become a staple in your home!
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready to bake your comforting casserole to golden perfection.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, creating a creamy mixture.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly. Pour the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. This will be the base of your comforting meal.
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Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the French fried onions with a sprinkle of paprika. This will create a beautifully crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy potatoes.
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Top and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the onion mixture over the potatoes. Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Cool and Serve: Once baking is complete, allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This cooling period helps set the casserole, making it easier to scoop onto plates.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during hectic days! You can prepare the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain quality. Additionally, you can mix the French fried onions with paprika ahead of time and keep them separate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the potato mixture into your baking dish, top with the onion mix, and bake as directed for perfect, hearty results with minimal fuss!
What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Steak Bowls?
A vibrant meal deserves equally delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience to the next level.
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Corn Tortillas: Soft and warm, they make the perfect handheld vessel for scooping up those savory steak bowls.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet, zesty, and creamy, this dish adds a burst of flavor that complements the fresh lime in your bowls seamlessly.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole provides a cooling balance to your spiced steak, enhancing the overall flavor harmony.
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Fresh Pico de Gallo: The bright, zesty salsa enhances the freshness of your ingredients and adds a delightful crunch that elevates every bite.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic side mirrors the bright notes in your steak bowls, creating a cohesive flavor experience.
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Black Bean Soup: Smooth and hearty, this soup echoes the protein theme and adds a delightful warmth that pairs well with the vibrant flavors of the bowl.
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Margaritas: Perfect for a celebratory touch, these refreshing cocktails provide a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the meal.
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Flan: End on a sweet note with this creamy, caramel dessert that offers a satisfying finish to a zesty dinner.
Expert Tips for French Onion Funeral Potatoes
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Crispy Topping: To ensure your French Onion Funeral Potatoes have a nice crunch, sprinkle extra fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready for a hassle-free dinner!
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Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding Gruyère or pepper jack, for unique flavors that cater to your taste.
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Bake Evenly: Cover your dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to help the potatoes cook evenly; remove the foil to brown the top.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning of your mixture before baking; every palate is different, and you want it just right!
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Serve Warm: Serve your French Onion Funeral Potatoes warm, as they are best enjoyed straight from the oven for maximum comfort and flavor!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Variations
Customize your French Onion Funeral Potatoes for an even more comforting experience that suits your tastes!
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Vegetarian Delight:
Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a delightful veggie-friendly version. This swap keeps the richness while appealing to non-meat eaters. -
Add Some Meat:
Incorporate cooked bacon or ham into the potato mixture for a savory pop of flavor. The saltiness enhances every creamy bite, making it even more indulgent. -
Spice It Up:
Toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. This will elevate the entire dish and add a delightful warmth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes. -
Cheese Lover’s Twist:
Mix in different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack or Gruyère, to create a gourmet flair. Melting cheese offers new dimensions and rich flavors to your comfort food. -
Herb Infusion:
Add fresh chopped herbs like chives or thyme for an aromatic twist. Their vibrant notes will elevate your dish while adding a lovely freshness. -
Crunchy Topping Variety:
Try mixing in crushed crackers or even seasoned breadcrumbs with the fried onions for a different texture. This adds an exciting crunch while maintaining that comforting feel. -
Loaded Potatoes:
Top your casserole with sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions right before serving for a delightful loaded twist that will wow your guests. -
Casserole Version:
Transform this dish into a complete meal by layering cooked meat, like shredded chicken, and veggies such as broccoli or spinach within the potatoes. This hearty adaptation is sure to satisfy!
How to Store and Freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, retaining that delicious creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled, unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to your cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil to keep moisture in, and bake until heated through, ensuring that your French Onion Funeral Potatoes stay comforting and delicious.
French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How should I choose the right frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! For the best texture, go for shredded frozen hash browns. They provide an even layer throughout the dish and will bake up beautifully crispy!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Yes! To freeze, place the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and keep it frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then add 10-15 minutes to your baking time when cooking from frozen.
What if my topping isn’t crispy enough?
If you notice your topping isn’t as crispy as you’d like, sprinkle a few extra French fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will give you that irresistible crunch and enhance the flavors!
Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. If you’d like it gluten-free, ensure your soup and fried onions are labeled as gluten-free, and check for any alternative toppings. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like veggies or different cheeses to fit your preferences!
Should I let the dish cool before serving?
Yes, letting the French Onion Funeral Potatoes cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps them set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve while ensuring each bite retains that delicious flavor.
Comforting French Onion Funeral Potatoes Your New Favorite Side
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly. Pour the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the French fried onions with paprika.
- Evenly sprinkle the onion mixture over the potatoes. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.