French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a cozy and creamy casserole packed with cheesy goodness and crispy onion flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal!
They are sure to make everyone smile at the table, especially with that crispy topping. I never can resist going back for seconds—who can blame me? 🧀
Preparing this dish is a breeze! Just mix, bake, and enjoy the warm, cheesy comfort. Great for sharing or just treating yourself on a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen shredded hash browns make this dish easy and quick. If you can’t find these, you can shred fresh potatoes after soaking them in water to remove excess starch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a strong flavor to the dish. You can swap it with mild cheddar or even gouda for a different taste. If you’re dairy-free, consider a vegan cheese alternative.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you prefer a lighter option, use a homemade mushroom sauce or cream of chicken soup instead. For a vegetarian version, ensure the soup is meat-free.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture. If you’re watching your calories, low-fat sour cream can work. Greek yogurt could also be a healthy substitute with similar thickness.
Onion: Sweet onions are great for caramelizing, but yellow onions will work too for a more pungent flavor. If you want less sweetness, try reducing the caramelization time.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions gives your dish a delicious, sweet flavor. This step is crucial, but it can take some patience. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter with a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions to the pan; stir occasionally. This helps them cook evenly.
- Keep the heat medium-low, allowing the onions to cook gently for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden and soft.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan—this adds extra flavor!
Taking your time will reward you with flavorful, caramelized onions that enhance your dish beautifully!
Delicious French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme, plus extra for garnish
- Cooking oil (for caramelizing onions)
For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish requires about 30 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking time, plus a few minutes to rest at the end. Overall, you can expect to spend around 1.5 hours from start to finish, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or potlucks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish that’s about 9×13 inches and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will help your potatoes bake beautifully!
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with a splash of cooking oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the thinly sliced onion. Stir frequently and allow the onions to cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized. This step adds a sweet, rich flavor!
3. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
While your onions are cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir everything together until well combined. It should look creamy and delicious!
4. Fold in the Onions:
Gently fold half of the caramelized onions into the potato mixture. This will ensure that every bite is filled with flavor. The other half will be saved for the top to add a nice crispy finish!
5. Transfer and Prepare for Baking:
Carefully transfer the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish to ensure even baking.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Dot the top of the casserole with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, making sure it’s spread out. Then, layer the rest of the caramelized onions on top of the potato mixture.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling—a sign of deliciousness!
8. Final Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. This little wait will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh thyme on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Now you have a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s sure to impress!
This recipe combines creamy baked potatoes with the caramelized sweetness and savoriness of French onions, making it a delightful addition to any meal!
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns! Just make sure to soak peeled and shredded potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and dry them before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and a simple white sauce, or use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you’re not concerned about being vegetarian.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
