French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Prepare the Oven and Dish:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and spray a standard thirteen by nine inch baking dish so nothing sticks later

Mix the Potato Base:

In a big bowl stir together thawed hash browns melted butter sharp cheddar and sour cream Use a sturdy spoon and be gentle so the potatoes stay in cubes Set aside

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat Add diced onion and cook slowly for three to five minutes until soft not browned then add minced garlic and stir for an extra minute

Build the Roux and Add Liquids:

Sprinkle in flour salt pepper cayenne and dried mustard Stir well for about a minute to coat the onions with the flour Mixture should look thick not dry

Slowly Pour in Liquids:

Pour in milk and chicken broth a little at a time while whisking constantly to avoid lumps Keep whisking until you have a silky thickened sauce

Combine and Assemble:

Pour the finished sauce over the potato mixture in your big bowl Mix gently until everything is evenly combined Spread this into your prepared baking dish

Bake the Casserole:

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about forty five to fifty minutes Check that the potatoes are hot and bubbly throughout

Prepare Fried Onions While Baking:

Slice large onions very thin and separate the layers Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to three hundred fifty degrees Dry the onions a bit with a towel for best crispiness Fry in batches for two to five minutes until golden Stir gently to keep them separate Use a slotted spoon to lift them onto layered paper towels

Salt the Onions:

Once all onions are fried and drained sprinkle them evenly with kosher salt so they stay tasty even after baking

Finish and Serve:

Take the hot casserole from the oven and cover the top with a thick layer of the fried onions right away Serve hot and fresh

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I never thought fried onions could be a game changer but they add such a deep savory flavor to every bite My kids love helping slice the onions and consider this the best part of making it together

Storage Tips

Leftover casserole stores well in the fridge for up to four days The onions on top will soften a bit but you can re crisp them under the broiler for a few minutes To freeze wrap the cooled casserole well and keep up to two months Reheat straight from frozen until piping hot

Ingredient Substitutions

For the potatoes use diced cooked potatoes or shredded hash browns if you have those on hand If you need a lighter version try using light sour cream and reduced fat cheddar Monterey jack can work as a cheese swap and for a meatless option switch to vegetable broth

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes pair perfectly with roast meats like ham or beef They also work as a main meal with a crisp green salad and steamed veggies I sometimes serve them at brunch with eggs on the side for extra warmth

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Cultural Context

Funeral potatoes earned their name from being a comforting casserole traditionally brought to family gatherings funerals and church potlucks in the American Midwest and West The French onion twist draws on the classic soup flavor while keeping that same sense of home and hospitality

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes these potatoes 'French Onion' style?

These potatoes feature a savory onion sauce and are topped with homemade fried onions, reminiscent of classic French onion flavors.

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Peel and cube fresh potatoes, then parboil briefly before combining with the other ingredients for the best texture.

→ Is there a substitute for sharp cheddar cheese?

You can try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a cheese blend for a slightly different flavor, though sharp cheddar delivers the boldest taste.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Assemble everything except the fried onions, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Add onions and bake before serving.

→ What is the secret to crispy fried onions?

Slice onions thinly, fry in small batches at the right temperature, and drain thoroughly for golden, crispy results.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.