French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a cozy dish that mixes creamy ingredients with crispy, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a comforting meal at home!
These potatoes are always a hit! I love how the onion flavor shines through and the cheesy top gets golden and crunchy—Yum! And let’s be real, we all keep going back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen shredded hash browns make this dish super easy. If you don’t have them, you can use freshly grated potatoes; just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. For a healthier twist, you can swap with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce if you have the time.
Sour Cream: It gives a nice tang to the dish. You could use Greek yogurt as a substitute for a lighter option with similar tanginess.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up! Try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different flavors. Make sure it’s a good melting cheese.
French Fried Onions: These crispy pieces add crunch. If you’re avoiding them, try crushed cornflakes mixed with a little melted butter or make your own baked onions for a fresh twist.
How Do I Ensure a Creamy and Evenly Cooked Casserole?
Mixing the ingredients well is crucial. You want every potato shred to be coated with the creamy mixture, ensuring even cooking. Here’s how:
- In a large bowl, blend the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheeses before adding the potatoes.
- Gently fold in the thawed hash browns; overmixing can make them mushy.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish for uniform cooking.
Don’t skip covering with foil early on in baking; this helps everything cook through before browning the top. Uncovering towards the end allows for that beautiful golden crust.
How to Make French Onion Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups French fried onions, divided
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and then 1 hour of baking time—45 minutes covered and another 15 minutes uncovered to achieve that lovely golden top. Ideal for gatherings and comfort food cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or a bit of butter.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth—this will be the creamy base for your dish!
3. Combine with Hash Browns:
Next, fold in the thawed hash browns and chopped green onions (if you want to add some color and flavor). Make sure all the potatoes are coated well with the creamy mixture.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Now, pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Add the Toppings:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. This is where the fun begins! Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 1/4 cups of French fried onions. Then, drizzle the melted butter over the entire topping to give it that extra crunch.
6. Finish Baking:
Pop the dish back into the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Dive into this creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While frozen shredded hash browns are convenient, you can use fresh grated potatoes. Just be sure to rinse and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent your casserole from being too watery.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
You can make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and checking that your French fried onions are gluten-free. There are plenty of brand options available!