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Let me share my favorite twist on comfort food! These French Onion Funeral Potatoes have become my go-to dish for family gatherings. I first made them for Sunday dinner last winter, and my mom actually called the next day asking for the recipe that never happens! The crispy fried onions on top take these from good to absolutely incredible, and that cheesy potato base? Pure comfort in every bite.
Why You Need This Recipe
This isn't your standard potato casserole! I've taken those beloved funeral potatoes we all grew up with and gave them a French onion makeover. The sauce is rich and velvety, and when you get that perfect bite with the crispy onions on top it's absolutely magical. My nephew, who normally picks at his food, asked for seconds last Christmas!
Grab These Ingredients
- Hash Browns: I always use the cubed frozen ones they hold up better in the casserole.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite it really packs a punch!
- Sour Cream: Full fat, please it makes everything creamier.
- Sauce Ingredients: We're making magic with butter, onions, garlic, flour, broth, and milk.
- For Those Crispy Onions: Get nice yellow onions and slice them thin.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, a pinch of cayenne for zip, and dry mustard it all matters!
Let's Make It!
- The Potato Base
- First, get those hash browns mixed up with melted butter, cheese, and sour cream. I use my biggest bowl because nobody likes cleaning up spills!
- Saucy Business
- Here's where the magic happens. Cook those onions until they're soft and sweet, add garlic (because why not?), then make your sauce. When it's all thick and bubbly, pour it over your potatoes.
- Into the Oven
- Spread everything in your baking dish I use my favorite 9x13 that's seen many holiday dinners. Pop it in the oven and let it do its thing.
- Onion Time
- While it bakes, we're making those amazing crispy onions! Keep an eye on them they go from perfect to burnt in seconds. I usually make extra because they're too good not to snack on.
- The Grand Finale
- Top your bubbling casserole with those crispy onions and watch everyone gather around!
Plan Ahead Tips
Life gets busy, so here's a secret: you can make this ahead! I often prep it the night before a big gathering. Just hold off on those crispy onions until serving time. You can even freeze it for a few months, which is perfect for those surprise dinner guests or when you just need some comfort food on demand.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I get fancy and throw in some Gruyère with the cheddar talk about amazing! My sister adds crumbled bacon (because bacon makes everything better), and my friend Lisa adds red peppers for color. And if you're short on time, those store-bought crispy onions work too no judgment here!
My Top Tips
After making this countless times, I've learned a few tricks! Really drain those hash browns nobody likes a watery casserole. Take the chill off your milk and broth it makes for a smoother sauce. And please, please watch that oil temperature when frying onions. I may have set off the smoke alarm once or twice learning this lesson!
What Makes This So Good
There's something magical about how the creamy, cheesy potatoes pair with those crispy onions. It's like combining two comfort foods into one amazing dish. Every time I bring this to a potluck, people hover around it and the dish comes home empty!
Serving Ideas
This casserole loves company! It's perfect next to a holiday turkey or Sunday roast. I always serve it with something green to balance out all that delicious richness. Last Thanksgiving, it actually outshined the turkey my brother-in-law's words, not mine!
Quick Answers
Friends always ask: Can I use shredded hash browns? Sure, but I prefer cubed they hold their shape better. Store-bought onions? Totally fine for busy days! And leftovers? They're amazing for up to 4 days if they last that long in your house!
The Best Part
You know what I love most about this dish? It brings people together. Whether it's a holiday feast or just a Sunday dinner, everyone gathers around when this comes out of the oven. There's something about that golden-brown top and those crispy onions that just makes people happy. And isn't that what cooking is all about?
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought fried onions instead?
- Yes, you can substitute French's or other store-bought crispy onions to save time. However, homemade fried onions provide fresher flavor and crispier texture.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- You can assemble the potato mixture and sauce ahead of time, but wait to add the crispy onions until just before serving to maintain their crunch. The casserole can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- → Why are they called funeral potatoes?
- This style of potato casserole got its name because it's traditionally served at funeral luncheons, particularly in the American Midwest and Mormon community. It's comfort food that's easy to make in large quantities.
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
- While possible, frozen hash browns are recommended for convenience and consistent texture. If using fresh, shred and par-cook the potatoes first, then drain and dry them well.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the crispy onions will soften over time. Reheat in the oven for best results.