If you have a soft spot for comforting, cheesy casseroles that bring people together, then you absolutely must try this French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe. This dish beautifully combines the rich, caramelized sweetness of slow-cooked onions with creamy, cheesy potatoes, making it a crowd-pleaser at every gathering. It’s the kind of recipe that hugs you from the inside and turns any meal into a celebration of home-style goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, beloved ingredients, each playing an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and warmth. From the crispy shredded hash browns to the mellow French onion dip, every component is thoughtfully chosen to make a perfect harmony on your plate.
- Shredded hash browns (30 oz, thawed): The classic potato base that provides the comforting and hearty texture.
- French onion dip (1 cup): This adds a savory, tangy depth of flavor reminiscent of classic French onion soup.
- Sour cream (1 ½ cups): Brings creamy richness and a slight tanginess to balance the cheese.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can): Binds everything together with silky smoothness and a gentle savory note.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Adds that gooey, melty goodness and sharp flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
- Yellow onions (2 large, thinly sliced): Slowly caramelized to golden perfection, their sweetness transforms the potatoes.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Essential for caramelizing the onions and adding a luscious richness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): To balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by slicing your onions thinly. Then melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat and cook the onions slowly for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow caramelization brings out the sweetest, richest flavor and softest texture, which is pivotal to the overall soulful taste of this dish. Set them aside once they’re a lovely golden brown.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and French onion dip. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture is the luscious core that will coat the potatoes, infusing them with flavor and moisture, ensuring that each bite feels indulgent and satisfying.
Step 3: Fold in Potatoes and Cheese
Take the thawed shredded hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese and fold them gently into the creamy mixture until everything is evenly coated. This step unites all the ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance between the tender potatoes and melty cheese throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the surface with half of the caramelized onions. Topping the casserole halfway through the layers guarantees those onions infuse the entire dish with their beautiful flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling joyfully and the top has developed a gorgeous golden crust that invites you to dig in.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Once you take the casserole out, sprinkle the remaining caramelized onions on top, along with a handful of fresh chopped parsley if you like. This final burst of flavor and color takes the French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe to the next level before serving hot and fresh.
How to Serve French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous lift. If you want, a few thinly sliced green onions can add a nice fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes and caramelized onions.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own but pairs wonderfully with bright, crisp salads to balance the richness. Think fresh greens with vinaigrette or even steamed green beans with lemon zest. It also stands up well alongside roasted chicken or a juicy pork roast for a full meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at a dinner party. Another idea is to prepare mini casserole portions in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go servings, perfect for potlucks or casual lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap up any leftover French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe in airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later day, freeze the casserole before baking. Use a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, just add extra baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again. This will revive that crispy top and bring back the unbeatable aroma of caramelized onions and melted cheddar cheese.
FAQs
Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup alternative, and you’ll keep it just as creamy and delicious without meat ingredients.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Shredded frozen hash browns are ideal because they cook evenly and soak up the flavors beautifully. Freshly shredded potatoes can work, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture beforehand.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Cheddar is classic here for its sharpness and meltability, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Swiss if you want a different flavor profile.
How do I avoid the dish getting too watery?
Make sure your hash browns are well thawed and any excess water is drained. Also, don’t overdo the soup and sour cream amounts, as they add moisture, so stick to the recipe ratios for best results.
Is this dish suitable for large gatherings?
Yes! French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd. It scales up easily and is always a hit, especially when you have hungry guests looking for hearty, comforting dishes.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Funeral Potatoes Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that warms hearts and plates alike. Whether you’re sharing it with family, bringing it to a get-together, or enjoying a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved classic 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: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a comforting, cheesy casserole loaded with shredded hash browns, creamy French onion dip, sour cream, and savory caramelized onions. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized yellow onions and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal side dish for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup French onion dip
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Slice the yellow onions thinly and place them in a skillet with 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Cook slowly for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and become soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, French onion dip, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Potatoes and Cheese: Fold the thawed shredded hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading evenly to fill the dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle half of the caramelized onions evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven. Top it with the remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to thaw the hash browns fully for even cooking.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key to developing their sweet and rich flavor.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a crispier top, sprinkle additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.
