French Onion Funeral Potatoes are cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-comforting! With crispy onion topping and a buttery base, this dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
I like to think of them as a warm hug in a casserole dish! They’re super easy to make, and they always bring smiles at the table. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient for this dish. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with freshly grated potatoes. Just soak them in cold water to remove excess starch, then squeeze them dry.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice bite to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, go for medium cheddar. For a twist, try pepper jack or a blend of cheeses like Colby-Jack for extra creaminess.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well and provides protein. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream for a vegan approach.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This provides moisture and flavor. If you’re avoiding mushrooms, choose cream of chicken soup, or a plant-based cream soup for a vegetarian substitute. Homemade versions are great, too!
French Onion Soup Mix: This boosts the onion flavor wonderfully. If you don’t have it, you can make a simple mix using onion powder, garlic powder, and beef or vegetable bouillon granules.
Crispy Fried Onions: They add a great crunch. You can use store-bought or make your own by frying thin onion slices in butter. If you’re looking for something healthier, roasted chickpeas can add crunch without the fat.
How Do I Get My Onions Crispy Without Burning Them?
Perfectly browned onions add rich flavor to your dish. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning. Start with enough butter so they don’t stick.
- Slice onions thinly for even cooking. Stir often, scraping any bits off the pan for extra flavor.
- Cook until golden brown, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. If they start to burn, reduce the heat.
- For a shortcut, use store-bought crispy fried onions to save time, but homemade will give you that fresh taste!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy onions that will elevate your French Onion Funeral Potatoes.
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
For Topping:
- 2 cups crispy fried onions (onion strings or similar)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then 55 minutes to bake, for a total of around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love the creamy texture and savory flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven will be ready for the casserole when you finish preparing it.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and French onion soup mix. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely mixed. If you’re using green onions, feel free to add those in the mix!
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the potato mixture into it. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom so every bite will be packed with flavor.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot and bubbly!
5. Cook the Onions (or Use Store-Bought):
While your casserole is baking, it’s time to prepare the crispy topping. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook them until they’re crispy and golden brown. Alternatively, you can just use store-bought crispy fried onions to save time.
6. Add the Onion Topping:
During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle your crispy fried onions (or browned onions) evenly over the top of the casserole. This will bring all the flavors together!
7. Final Bake:
Put the casserole back in the oven and let it bake until the onions are golden and crispy, about 10 more minutes.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This helps to set the dish and makes it easier to serve!
9. Garnish (Optional):
If you like, you can garnish your French Onion Funeral Potatoes with some fresh thyme or parsley to add a pop of color and flavor!
This dish beautifully combines the creamy goodness of funeral potatoes with the rich taste of French onion soup, all topped off with crunchy fried onions. Your friends and family will love it!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella for a milder flavor, pepper jack for some heat, or even a blend of cheeses. Just make sure it melts well.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook it, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep the crispy topping better!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and the French onion soup mix are labeled gluten-free. You can also make your own version of these to be completely safe!