Introduction to French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Ah, French Onion Funeral Potatoes! Just the name brings a smile to my face. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those chilly evenings or family gatherings. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s a quick solution for a busy day or a comforting side that impresses your loved ones. With creamy goodness and a crunchy topping, these potatoes are sure to become a staple in your home, just like they have in mine!
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Let me tell you, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a game changer! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The creamy texture combined with that crunchy onion topping creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser, so you can impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frozen diced hash browns: These are the base of the dish, providing that comforting potato goodness. Thaw them before use for even cooking.
- Small onion: Finely diced, this adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. Sautéing it brings out its natural flavors.
- Butter: A must for sautéing the onions, it adds richness and helps everything blend beautifully.
- Cream of chicken soup: This creamy ingredient binds everything together. For a vegetarian option, swap it for a vegetarian cream soup.
- Sour cream: It adds a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This cheese brings a sharp flavor that complements the dish. Feel free to use a blend for extra taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: It melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture that everyone loves.
- French onion soup mix: This is the secret ingredient that infuses the dish with that classic French onion flavor.
- French fried onions: These crunchy bits are the crowning glory, adding texture and a burst of flavor on top.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting side dish that everyone will love.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want those potatoes to bake perfectly, not just warm up. Trust me, your patience will pay off!
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well. I like to use butter or cooking spray. This step is important because it prevents the potatoes from sticking. Nobody wants to wrestle with a stuck-on mess when serving!
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the finely diced onion. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor, making your French Onion Funeral Potatoes even more delicious. The sweet aroma will have your family gathering in the kitchen!
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, French onion soup mix, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. You want that creamy goodness to coat every ingredient!
Step 5: Add Hash Browns
Now, it’s time to fold in the thawed hash browns. Gently stir until they’re well coated with the creamy mixture. This is where the magic happens! The hash browns will soak up all those delicious flavors, making each bite a comforting delight.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Spread the potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on it; the edges should be slightly golden. That’s when you know you’re in for a treat!
Step 7: Add Topping
Once your dish is bubbling, it’s time for the grand finale! Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
After baking, let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to settle. Pair your French Onion Funeral Potatoes with roasted meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips for Success
- Thaw your hash browns completely for even cooking.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions; it enhances the flavor significantly.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
- Let the dish rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- For a crispy topping, keep an eye on the French fried onions while baking.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best, but any similar size will do.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing onions, but any skillet will suffice.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a pot can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: Use it for mixing and spreading the potato mixture evenly.
Variations of French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Cheesy Spinach Variation: Add a cup of fresh or frozen spinach to the mixture for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Mix in crumbled bacon and green onions for a loaded twist that adds extra flavor.
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your French fried onions are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions for French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Pair with roasted chicken or beef for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
- Complement with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Use a colorful serving dish to make it visually appealing.
FAQs about French Onion Funeral Potatoes
As I’ve shared my love for French Onion Funeral Potatoes, I often get questions about this delightful dish. Here are some common queries that might help you on your culinary journey!
Can I make French Onion Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great time-saver!
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use a vegetarian cream soup. You can also make a homemade version using vegetable broth and a roux for a healthier twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying again!
Can I freeze French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What dishes pair well with French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
These potatoes are perfect alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad. They add a comforting touch to any meal!
Final Thoughts
Making French Onion Funeral Potatoes is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings and cozy nights in. The creamy texture paired with that crunchy topping brings joy to the table, making it a dish everyone looks forward to. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this comforting side dish is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Here’s to delicious moments shared with loved ones, one comforting bite at a time!
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French Onion Funeral Potatoes: A Comforting Side Dish!
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish made with creamy ingredients and topped with crunchy fried onions.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen diced hash browns, thawed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1½ cups French fried onions (for topping)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, French onion soup mix, salt, and pepper.
- Add thawed hash browns and stir until well coated.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle French fried onions evenly on top.
- Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a holiday side.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetarian alternative.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Feel free to add additional spices or herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
