French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a rich, cheesy, and comforting casserole that combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with the beloved funeral potatoes.
This dish features tender shredded potatoes, a creamy, savory sauce made with French onion dip, sour cream, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection.
A crispy, golden topping of buttery crushed French fried onions adds the perfect crunch.
Ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or family gatherings, this easy-to-make side dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any main course. With its deep, savory flavors and creamy texture, it’s the ultimate comfort food favorite!
French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Description
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a rich, cheesy, and comforting casserole that combines crispy hashbrowns, creamy sauce, and caramelized French onion flavor.
This dish features a blend of sour cream, cheddar cheese, and condensed soup, creating a velvety texture.
Topped with crunchy French-fried onions, it bakes to golden perfection, offering the perfect balance of crispy and creamy.
Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or family gatherings, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any main course.
Simple to prepare and full of flavor, French Onion Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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Mix the base:
In a large bowl, combine thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, French onion dip, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to evenly coat the hashbrowns.
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Assemble the casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
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Prepare the topping:
In a small bowl, mix crispy fried onions with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
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Bake:
uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
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Cool & serve:
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 12g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
French Onion Funeral Potatoes: Tips & Serving Tricks
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort dish perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals.
This dish combines shredded potatoes, a creamy sauce, and crispy fried onions for an irresistible texture and flavor.
Below are essential tips and tricks to make it even better!
Tips for the Best French Onion Funeral Potatoes
1. Use the Right Potatoes
- Frozen shredded hashbrowns work best for a soft yet structured texture. If using diced hashbrowns, ensure they are fully thawed for even cooking.
- Fresh potatoes can be used but should be parboiled and shredded for consistency.
2. Enhance the Creamy Base
- The traditional recipe calls for cream of mushroom or chicken soup, but for a richer taste, try making your own roux-based sauce with butter, flour, milk, and broth.
- Adding sour cream boosts tanginess and creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
3. Cheese Matters
- Sharp cheddar gives the best bold flavor, while Monterey Jack or Gruyère can add a delicious twist.
- Always shred cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
4. Perfectly Crispy Topping
- French-fried onions provide an amazing crunch, but mix them with panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Add the onions in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
5. Bake for the Right Texture
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
Serving Tricks for the Best Experience
1. Portioning & Presentation
- Use a 9x13-inch baking dish for even cooking and easy slicing.
- For potlucks, bake in a disposable foil pan for quick cleanup.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
2. Pairing Suggestions
French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair well with:
- Proteins: Roasted chicken, glazed ham, BBQ ribs, or steak.
- Vegetables: Green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh side salad.
- Bread: Dinner rolls or garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce.
3. Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the topping) and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly with foil and freeze up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 60 minutes.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it softens the topping.
Final Thoughts
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a beloved dish for good reason—rich, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser! With these tips, you can make them extra creamy, crispy, and flavorful, ensuring they’re the star of any meal. Happy cooking!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a rich and creamy potato casserole that combines classic funeral potatoes with the bold flavors of French onion soup
. This dish typically features shredded or diced potatoes, sour cream, condensed cream soup, shredded cheese, and crispy French-fried onions as a topping.
The result is a cheesy, savory, and crunchy casserole that’s perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, and comfort food cravings.
The “funeral potatoes” name comes from its tradition of being served at post-funeral gatherings in the Midwest and Mormon communities, but it’s enjoyed at all kinds of events.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! French Onion Funeral Potatoes are an excellent make-ahead dish.
You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If preparing ahead, add the crispy fried onion topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.
When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then bake as directed.
If baking straight from the fridge, you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Can I Customize French Onion Funeral Potatoes?
This dish is easy to customize based on your preferences:
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Meat Additions: Add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
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Cheese Variations: While cheddar is common, try Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
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Soup Alternatives: Instead of condensed cream of chicken soup, use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even homemade béchamel for a fresher taste.
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Extra Toppings: While French-fried onions are the star, you can mix in crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips for a unique crunch.
