FRENCH ONION FUNERAL POTATOES IRRESISTIBLE

There’s a reason everyone requests funeral potatoes – that creamy, cheesy goodness is simply irresistible, but what if you could take it up a notch? These French Onion Funeral Potatoes combine the classic comfort of funeral potatoes with the savory, umami-rich flavor of French onion soup, creating a side dish that will have everyone begging for seconds, so prepare to experience a potato casserole unlike any you’ve tasted before!

The Magic Behind French Onion Funeral Potatoes

Funeral potatoes are a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and, yes, even funerals. Their comforting, cheesy nature is universally appealing. But I thought, “How can we make this even better?” The answer? French onion soup mix! It adds a depth of flavor that takes this humble potato dish to a whole new level. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

I’ve always loved experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe is the result of one of my successful experiments. I wanted something that was both familiar and exciting, comforting and flavorful. Plus, I know you’re busy, so I aimed for a recipe that’s relatively easy to throw together. It’s much simpler than making something like Cheesy Potato Gratin Casserole, but just as satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Potato Mixture:

• 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 packet (1 ounce) dry French onion soup mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (reserve 1 cup for topping)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed cornflakes
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Let’s Talk Ingredients: Why They Matter

Okay, let’s break down why each ingredient is crucial for achieving that perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes harmony.

• Frozen Hash Browns: Thawing is key! Nobody wants icy potatoes in their casserole. I usually let them thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them in the microwave, but be careful not to cook them.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the binder that holds everything together and adds a creamy richness. You can substitute cream of mushroom soup if you prefer, but I find cream of chicken complements the French onion flavor best.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture. Don’t skimp on this! Full-fat sour cream will give you the best results.
• Butter: Because everything is better with butter, right? It adds richness and flavor. I use unsalted butter so I can control the salt level.
• French Onion Soup Mix: The star of the show! This is what gives our funeral potatoes that signature French onion flavor. Make sure to get a good quality soup mix for the best results.
• Garlic Powder & Pepper: Seasoning is essential! These simple spices enhance all the other flavors.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack. Reserve some for the topping for that golden, bubbly crust.
• Cornflakes: The secret to a crispy topping! Crushed cornflakes add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potato mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Guide to Potato Perfection

Getting Started:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later on.

Mixing the Potato Magic:

1. In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, French onion soup mix, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
2. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the other cup for topping.
3. Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Creating the Crispy Topping:

1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. Toss to coat the cornflakes evenly.
2. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
3. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Baking to Golden Brown Glory:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly and the potato mixture is heated through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
2. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth (trust me, I’ve been there!).

Tips and Tricks for Potato Casserole Success

Alright, here’s where I share my insider secrets for making these French Onion Funeral Potatoes truly unforgettable. Consider these my best friend tips to you.

• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven when the topping is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the potato mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt, but be careful, as the French onion soup mix can be salty.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cornflake topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add diced ham, bacon, or sautéed onions to the potato mixture for extra flavor. You could even try using different types of cheese, like Gruyere or Swiss, to complement the French onion flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a fantastic side dish for any meal. They pair perfectly with roasted chicken, ham, or beef. You could also serve them as part of a brunch buffet or as a comforting side dish for a potluck. They’re a wonderful accompaniment to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken & Potatoes for a cozy family dinner.

Common Questions Answered

Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions about French Onion Funeral Potatoes. I know you’re thinking them!

• Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns? Absolutely! You’ll need about 4-5 cups of cooked and shredded potatoes. Make sure to drain them well before adding them to the mixture.
• Can I make this recipe without sour cream? You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, but it will change the flavor and texture slightly.
• Can I use a different type of soup? While cream of chicken soup is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
• The topping isn’t getting brown enough. What should I do? If the topping isn’t browning to your liking, you can broil it for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Other Potato Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a potato lover like me, you’re always on the hunt for new and exciting potato recipes. Here are a few of my favorites that I think you’ll enjoy:

• Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet and savory casserole that’s perfect for the holidays.
• Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup: An easy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day.
• Outback Potato Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy.
• Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Casserole: A complete meal in one dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts: Share the Potato Love!

These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to bring people together and create memories. The addition of French onion soup mix elevates this classic dish to something truly special, and I have no doubt that it will become a family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And don’t forget to share your creations with me – I love seeing your culinary masterpieces!