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French Onion Funeral Potatoes
The scent of French onion soup wafted through my home ever since I was young. This dish always reminded me of cozy gatherings and welcoming kitchens. The blend of savory onions and rich, earthy flavors felt like a warm hug. This passion for comforting food inspired my take on the classic combo: French Onion Funeral Potatoes. Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of funeral potatoes with the depth of French onion flavor creates a culinary experience that is heartwarming and satisfying.
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes offer that nostalgia wrapped in warm, melted cheese and crispy, caramelized onions. Whenever I serve them, I see faces light up, and hear stories shared over plates passed around the table. Each bite evokes happy memories and welcomes new ones. As a bustling kitchen inspires love and laughter, these potatoes embody what it means to share something special. Engaging with each layer of flavor and texture offers not just nourishment but connection.
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Whether serving at a potluck, holiday gathering, or simple family dinner, these French Onion Funeral Potatoes become the highlight of the meal. Their comforting nature, enhanced by crispy fried onions, takes every festive occasion to another level. This dish marries tradition with delight, presenting richness in every bite. The ease of preparation enables everyone to join in the process, making it not just a recipe, but an experience in the kitchen.
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Fundamentals
French Onion Funeral Potatoes begin with the essential foundation. Thawed frozen cubed hash browns deliver a perfect base—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. These versatile potatoes combine beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce and the robust flavor of onions. The hash browns create an ideal canvas for the onion mixture, adding depth while maintaining an impressive texture.
While preparing the dish, start by melting unsalted butter. This step adds a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall profile of the dish. Sharp cheddar cheese brings that quintessential cheesy stretch that we crave in comfort food. This cheese not only delivers flavor, but also contributes to an inviting, gooey texture.
A mix of sour cream and chicken broth introduces creaminess and moisture. The combination creates a luscious sauce that coats the potatoes, making each forkful delectable. Seasoning the dish with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard amplifies the flavors, while a touch of garlic adds sophistication. These fundamental ingredients come together harmoniously, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
Preparation/setup
Preparation begins by preheating your oven to 350°F, an essential step that facilitates even cooking throughout the dish. Next, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, allowing the glorious baked layers of goodness to glide out smoothly when serving.
Start by sautéing diced onions in a bit of melted butter. This process caramelizes the onions, releasing their natural sweetness and creating a depth of flavor. By cooking low and slow, you develop a rich base that will permeate throughout the dish. Once the onions reach that perfect golden brown, combine them with the rest of the ingredients.
In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns, the creamy sauce (which will consist of the melted butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and seasonings), and the sautéed onions. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated—a visual reward that foreshadows the delicious outcome. Add this mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly before baking.
Ingredients
To whip up these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you will need:
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 ½ cups (345 g) sour cream
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (for sautéing onions)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried mustard
- ½ cup (120 g) chicken broth (room temperature)
- ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk (room temperature)
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced, layers separated – about 4 cups onions)
- 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable oil (for frying onions)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for frying onions)
Directions
Begin by prepping the fried onions, a crunchy topping that adds texture and flavor. Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until hot. Carefully add the thinly sliced onions, ensuring they form a single layer. Fry the onions until they turn golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally. After frying, transfer the onions onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
Now, let’s focus on the potato mixture. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, milk, garlic, flour, and seasonings. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Next, fold in the thawed hash browns and sautéed diced onions until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Spread this hearty mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Allow it to bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns golden and bubbly. Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before topping with the fried onions for a delightful crunch.
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Crafting the Flavor of French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Technique
Creating the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes involves more than just combining ingredients; it requires attention to detail throughout the process. Focus on evenly cooking the onions—being patient and letting them caramelize slowly will elevate the dish. Use a wooden spoon to stir the onions frequently, preventing them from burning while enhancing their sweetness.
Consider using high-quality cheddar cheese. The sharper the cheese, the better, as it adds a robust flavor that complements the creamy elements. Grate your cheese using a box grater right before adding it to the sauce to enhance the creamy meltiness during baking.
When selecting hash browns, ensure they are well-thawed. This ensures they bake evenly and absorb all the flavors from the creamy sauce. If they remain frozen in the center, they may not cook through properly, leading to an uneven texture.
Tips/tricks
For an extra boost of flavor, feel free to experiment with additional seasonings. A pinch of thyme or even a drizzle of Worcestershire sauce can add new dimensions to the dish. These little tweaks offer customization and allow you to adapt it to your family’s preferences.
To enhance the crunch of the fried onions, consider adding a pinch of flour to the sliced onions before frying. This creates a light coating that crisps up beautifully in the oil. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, store-bought fried onions work as a quick topping, maximizing your time efficiency.
Should you desire a richer, creamier base, increase the amount of sour cream or substitute some whole milk with additional sour cream. Balance is key, and these small adjustments will give your French Onion Funeral Potatoes a custom flavor profile that truly feels like home.
Perfecting the Result
Perfecting results
Achieving the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and crispy French Onion Funeral Potatoes requires a few strategies. As the dish bakes, keep an eye on the onions atop—if they begin to darken too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. This ensures that the creamy base cooks through while permitting the crunchy topping to reach optimal crispiness.
Ensure the vegetables are cooked long enough in the first stages. Properly sautéing the onions develops their sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile. Overcooking them at this stage may lead to a bitter taste, which can affect the final dish.
When layering the fried onions, sprinkle them evenly across the top for the best presentation. This approach creates a stunning effect, making your dish appear lifted and inviting—proudly showcasing that perfect combination of creamy potatoes and crispy onions.
Troubleshooting/variations
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. If your French Onion Funeral Potatoes seem too dry after baking, consider covering them with foil during the final 5-10 minutes of cooking. This traps moisture and adds back the creaminess.
If you’re looking for variations, try incorporating cooked chicken or bacon bits into the potato mixture for added protein and flavor. Another option is swapping out cheddar cheese for Gruyère or gouda for a twist on the classic.
If you prefer comforting flavors with less spice, omit the cayenne pepper from the recipe. The dish will still burst with flavor without it. Ultimately, French Onion Funeral Potatoes adapt beautifully to your preferences while maintaining that beloved essence.
Serving French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Serving/presentation
Presentation plays a role in the enjoyment of the dish. Serve these creamy concoctions in the baking dish, scooping generous portions onto plates. Add a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika on top for a pop of color. The contrast of the golden-brown crispy onions against the creamy filling creates an enticing visual appeal, drawing everyone to the table.
French Onion Funeral Potatoes suit almost any occasion. Present them at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or comforting weeknight dinners. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or an assortment of vegetables to create a balanced meal that has everyone coming back for seconds.
Pairings/storage
Avoid pairing with wine; instead, serve these pototoes alongside a refreshing salad to balance the richness. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can introduce freshness and vibrant color to the plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storing leftovers couldn’t be easier. Allow the dish to cool and seal it in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the creamy texture returns. When frozen, note that freezing may alter the texture slightly, but the taste remains delicious. To freeze, pack in layers with parchment paper between to separate portions.
Conclusion
French Onion Funeral Potatoes seamlessly blend comfort and nostalgia into a dish that evokes memories of meals shared. Through this recipe, everyone can indulge in the warmth and joy of cooking. The long-standing tradition of gathering around the table continues through this delicious creation, connecting past and present. Each layer of flavor captures the essence of togetherness, making it a treasured addition to any kitchen.
Print
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting blend of creamy, cheesy funeral potatoes mixed with the rich flavors of French onion soup, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns (thawed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (for sautéing onions)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried mustard
- ½ cup chicken broth (room temperature)
- ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced, layers separated)
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying onions)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for frying onions)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Transfer onions to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, milk, garlic, flour, and seasonings. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in thawed hash browns and sautéed diced onions until mixed thoroughly.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Top with fried onions and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using high-quality cheddar cheese or experimenting with different seasonings like thyme.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: French onion, funeral potatoes, comfort food, casserole
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