French Onion Potatoes Recipe – Savory Cheesy Side Dish
If you love the classic flavor of French onion soup, you’re going to fall head over heels for French Onion Potatoes! This easy side dish combines caramelized onions, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese for a recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to impress your guests.
You’ll find easy step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and answers to common questions to help you make the best French Onion Potatoes at home.
What Are French Onion Potatoes?
French Onion Potatoes take inspiration from traditional French onion soup. The dish features sliced potatoes baked with sweet caramelized onions, beef broth, and a generous layer of melted cheese on top.
It’s creamy, savory, and packed with umami from the onions and cheese. This dish is perfect for holidays or as a comforting addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of flavor: Sweet caramelized onions blend with savory cheese and potatoes.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile: Works as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
- Family-friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
Ingredients for French Onion Potatoes
To make French Onion Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup beef broth (substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Onions
Start by caramelizing the onions. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Tip: Caramelizing onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness. Avoid turning up the heat to rush this step.
2. Slice the Potatoes
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Thin slices ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the onions and broth.
3. Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping them.
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Spread half of the caramelized onions over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes, more salt and pepper, the rest of the onions, and the remaining cheese.
4. Add the Broth
Slowly pour the beef broth evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. This will help cook the potatoes and infuse them with savory flavor.
5. Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the French Onion Potatoes cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect French Onion Potatoes
- Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture.
- Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Don’t skip caramelizing the onions. This step adds the signature French onion flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and vegetarian cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Variations
- Add protein: Mix in cooked bacon or ham between the layers for a heartier dish.
- Herbs: Try adding rosemary, sage, or chives for extra flavor.
- Creamy twist: Replace part of the broth with heavy cream for an even richer casserole.
What to Serve with French Onion Potatoes
French Onion Potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- Green salad or roasted vegetables
- Vegetarian main courses like lentil loaf or stuffed peppers
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions until hot.
Make Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are both great choices. They become tender and creamy when baked.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth and a vegetarian-friendly cheese.
Can I freeze French Onion Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
What cheese works best?
Gruyère is classic for French onion flavor, but Swiss, mozzarella, or even cheddar cheese can be used.
How do I make sure the potatoes are cooked through?
Slice the potatoes thinly and make sure the casserole is covered for the first part of baking. This helps the potatoes cook evenly in the steam.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely. Cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham can be layered with the potatoes and onions.
French Onion Potatoes
French Onion Potatoes combine caramelized onions, tender sliced potatoes, beef broth, and gooey melted cheese for an irresistibly savory side dish inspired by classic French onion soup. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup beef broth (substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and dried thyme during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- While the onions cook, slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Spread half of the caramelized onions over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, more salt and pepper, the rest of the onions, and the remaining cheese.
- Slowly pour the beef broth evenly over the layered potatoes and onions.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are tender and cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 355Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 51mgSodium: 428mgCarbohydrates: 33gFiber: 4gSugar: 3gProtein: 16g
The nutrition information provided is an estimate calculated using an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Exact values may vary depending on ingredient brands, measurements, preparation methods, and portion sizes. For the most accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or use your own preferred nutrition calculator.
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