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French Onion Funeral Potatoes – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting

Few dishes capture the spirit of pure comfort like a bubbling casserole of funeral potatoes. Rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness, this beloved side dish has earned its place at family gatherings, holidays, and Sunday dinners alike. But what happens when you take that cozy classic and infuse it with the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions? You get French Onion Funeral Potatoes — a next-level version of the dish everyone already loves. These potatoes are the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Picture golden hash browns baked in a velvety sauce made from cheddar, sour cream, and a hint of mustard, layered with perfectly caramelized onions that bring a rich, savory sweetness. The result? A mouthwatering side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and brimming with flavor. Whether served alongside roasted chicken, beef, or enjoyed as a standalone meal, this recipe combines the homey warmth of classic funeral potatoes with the sophisticated taste of French onion soup. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven. 🧀🥔✨
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy cheesy comfort dish:
🧅 Fruits & Vegetables
  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons garlic minced
🥫 Canned Goods
  • ½ cup chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 32 ounces frozen hash browns thawed
🍯 Condiments
  • ½ teaspoon dried mustard
🧂 Baking Aids & Spices
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for a hint of spice
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
🫒 Oils & Vinegars
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying the onions
🧈 Dairy
  • ½ cup butter unsalted (divided)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1½ cups sour cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
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Equipment

  • To make these French Onion Funeral Potatoes, you’ll need just a few kitchen basics:
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish (9x13-inch)
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect French Onion Funeral Potatoes — creamy, golden, and packed with flavor.
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until they turn deep golden brown and soft.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
  4. Add ½ cup chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
  5. Simmer for a few minutes until the liquid reduces slightly, then remove from heat.
  6. Pro Tip: Caramelizing onions low and slow brings out their natural sweetness — this step is what gives the dish its signature depth.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
  3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
  4. Stir in sour cream, dried mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  5. Add 1½ cups cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with the creamy cheese sauce.
  2. Stir in half of the caramelized onions (reserve the rest for topping).
  3. Mix until evenly coated and everything is deliciously creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
  1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Spoon the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  3. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle with the last ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  3. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
  2. Pair it with roast chicken, turkey, or even a green salad for balance.
  3. Every bite is creamy, cheesy perfection with the caramelized sweetness of onions shining through! 🧅💛

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
To Store:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
To Reheat:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
For smaller portions, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to maintain creaminess.
🥄 Variations
Make your French Onion Funeral Potatoes unique with one of these delicious twists:
Crunchy Topping: Add crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions before baking.
Cheesy Upgrade: Use a mix of cheddar and gruyère for a gourmet twist.
Garlic Lovers’ Version: Add an extra teaspoon of garlic for deeper flavor.
Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a fresh finish.
Loaded Potato Style: Stir in cooked chicken or beef for a complete meal.
Lighter Option: Use light sour cream and milk for a lower-calorie version.
Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños for heat.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Mini Bakes: Divide into ramekins for individual servings.
Holiday Flair: Sprinkle with crispy shallots and thyme sprigs before serving.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Why are they called “Funeral Potatoes”?
The dish earned its name because it’s often served at gatherings and potlucks, especially after church events — but don’t worry, it’s perfect for any occasion!
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! Grate and squeeze out moisture from fresh potatoes before mixing.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes — it adds tang and creaminess while keeping the dish lighter.
4. Can I skip the cayenne pepper?
Of course! It’s optional and just adds a mild warmth.
5. What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère work wonderfully too.
6. Can I make this ahead?
Yes — assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
7. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
8. How do I get the best caramelized onions?
Cook them slowly over low heat for at least 20–25 minutes — patience brings the sweetness!
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers and reheat in the oven when ready.
10. What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with roast chicken, beef, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
🏁 Conclusion
These French Onion Funeral Potatoes are a symphony of flavor and comfort. The creamy base of cheddar and sour cream wraps around tender potatoes, while golden caramelized onions add a sweet-savory layer that elevates this dish to something truly unforgettable.
Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a comforting Sunday supper, or a potluck with friends, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and smiles to the table. Each spoonful delivers that perfect combination of creamy, cheesy indulgence and rich onion depth — comfort food at its finest.
So go ahead — caramelize those onions, stir up that cheese sauce, and bake up a dish that tastes like pure cozy joy. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your family will ask for seconds before the first serving is gone.