French Onion Funeral Potatoes

 

French Onion Funeral Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic with a Savory Twist

Some recipes have a way of bringing people together — no matter the occasion. Whether it's a potluck, Sunday dinner, or, yes, even a funeral gathering, there’s one dish you can always count on to disappear fast: funeral potatoes. Rich, creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crunchy crust — this casserole is the very definition of comfort food.

But this isn’t your average version.

French Onion Funeral Potatoes take the classic to the next level with the irresistible, savory-sweet flavor of caramelized onions (or French onion soup mix), adding a whole new depth of flavor that’s both nostalgic and totally crave-worthy.

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What Are Funeral Potatoes, Anyway?

Despite the somber name, funeral potatoes are a beloved staple in many households and communities — especially across the Midwest and Mountain West. They earned their name because they’re so often served at post-funeral luncheons, potlucks, and family gatherings where comfort food is a must.

Traditionally made with frozen hash browns, cream of soup, sour cream, and cheese, this casserole is easy to make, budget-friendly, and always hits the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This French Onion Version

• ✅ Rich, cheesy, and comforting — everything you want in a baked casserole

• ✅ French onion flavor adds a gourmet twist to a humble classic

• ✅ Easy to make ahead — perfect for meal prep or family dinners

• ✅ Crowd-pleaser — there are never leftovers, and everyone asks for the recipe

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Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 packet French onion soup mix or 1 cup caramelized onions

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the topping:

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes or French-fried onions

• 2–3 tbsp melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Mix the base:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, French onion soup mix (or caramelized onions), shredded cheese, melted butter, and seasoning. Stir until fully combined.

3. Transfer to dish:
   Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

4. Add the topping:
   In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes (or French-fried onions) with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.

5. Bake:
   Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

6. Cool & serve:
   Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

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Make It Your Own

• 🧅 French Onion Upgrade: Use homemade caramelized onions for an extra-rich flavor.

• 🧄 Add garlic or fresh thyme for a deeper savory profile.

• 🥓 Crispy bacon bits can be mixed in or sprinkled on top for extra indulgence.

• 🧀 Swap cheeses — try Gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a different spin.

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Serving Suggestions

French Onion Funeral Potatoes pair beautifully with:

• Roasted meats (ham, beef, pork chops, or rotisserie chicken)

• Green beans or a fresh salad

• Brunch spreads with eggs and fruit

• Leftovers (if there are any!) for breakfast with a fried egg on top

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Final Thoughts

French Onion Funeral Potatoes are comfort food at its finest — familiar, cozy, and deeply satisfying, with just enough of a twist to keep things exciting. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just making a warm weeknight dinner, this dish delivers every time.

From the creamy center to the crunchy, buttery topping, it's one of those casseroles that disappears faster than you expect — and has everyone coming back for "just one more scoop."

Make it once, and you’ll never go back to plain funeral potatoes again.