Name: French Onion Potato Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 large yellow onions; 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk; ½ cup beef broth (or vegetable broth); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme); 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish); Extra Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling); Crispy fried onions (optional)

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If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’re in the right place! This French Onion Potato Bake is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. It combines the sweet, rich flavors of caramelized onions with creamy potatoes and cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish will surely become a favorite at your table.

The best part? You can enjoy this recipe as a hearty side or even as a main dish. With its layers of flavor and cheesy topping, it’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple preparation: Most of the work is in slicing, sautéing, and layering. You’ll be enjoying this bake in no time!
Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and let it do all the work while you relax.
Delicious flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and melty cheese creates an irresistible savory bite that’s hard to resist.
Versatile option: Perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings—this recipe shines on any table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this French Onion Potato Bake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Onion Mixture

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps onions caramelize faster)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
½ cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

For the Potato Layer

4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)

For the Creamy Topping

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
Crispy fried onions (optional, for extra crunch!)

Variations

One of the best things about this French Onion Potato Bake is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

Swap the cheese: Change up the cheeses based on what you have on hand—try feta for a tangy twist or pepper jack for some heat!
Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Change up the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or oregano if you want to switch things up from thyme.
Make it spicier: Add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make French Onion Potato Bake

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced yellow onions along with salt and pepper. Sauté those beauties until they become soft and golden, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in that optional sugar to help them caramelize even faster! This step brings out their natural sweetness which is key to delicious flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Broth Mixture

Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, stir in the garlic powder, thyme, and beef or vegetable broth. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so all those flavors meld together perfectly. The broth adds moisture and depth to our bake—don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Layer Your Potatoes

In a greased baking dish, start layering half of your sliced Yukon Gold potatoes on the bottom. Then pour half of your onion mixture over them evenly. Top with half of both cheeses—Gruyère and Parmesan—before adding another layer of potatoes followed by the remaining onion mixture and cheeses. Trust me; these layers create heavenly bites!

Step 4: Pour on the Cream

In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream (or whole milk), salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme leaves until combined. Pour this creamy goodness over your layered bake—it will soak into every nook and cranny while cooking.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown! The crispy bits are my favorite part.

Enjoy every bite of this fantastic French Onion Potato Bake; I know it will warm your heart just as much as it fills your belly!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Potato Bake

Creating the perfect French Onion Potato Bake is all about the little details that enhance the flavors and textures. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

Caramelize the onions well: Spend a little extra time cooking your onions until they are deeply golden brown. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor of your bake.
Use a variety of cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese can create a more complex flavor profile. Combining Gruyère with sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella provides a deliciously melty texture and rich taste.
Layer wisely: When assembling your potato bake, alternate layers of potatoes and onions for even distribution of flavors throughout the dish. This ensures that every bite has that delightful oniony goodness!
Cover during baking: If you’re worried about the top getting too brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly without burning the cheese.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing your bake to sit for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve while still maintaining its creamy texture.

How to Serve French Onion Potato Bake

This hearty dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme on top gives a pop of color and enhances the aroma.
Extra Parmesan cheese: A light sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan just before serving can add an inviting richness.
Crispy fried onions: For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, topping your bake with crispy fried onions provides an irresistible texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Simple green salad: A fresh mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy potato bake.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini complement the dish’s richness while adding color and nutrients.
Steamed broccoli or green beans: These lightly cooked veggies can provide some brightness and balance to your meal without overwhelming it.
Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread is a classic pairing that can scoop up any cheesy remnants left on your plate!

Now you’re all set to impress at dinner with this delicious French Onion Potato Bake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Potato Bake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the bake to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Prepare the dish as directed but do not bake it.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the cover from your baking dish and place it in the oven.
Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme for extra flavor!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you along your cooking journey!

Can I make this French Onion Potato Bake vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.

What kind of cheese works best in French Onion Potato Bake?

Gruyère is traditional, but feel free to mix in Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile! Each will add its own unique twist.

How long does French Onion Potato Bake last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your leftovers will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Potato Bake is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s sure to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!

French Onion Potato Bake

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

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Description

If you’re in search of a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than this French Onion Potato Bake. This delightful casserole combines the sweet richness of caramelized onions with creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, layered with melty cheese for a satisfying meal any night of the week. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need an easy weeknight dinner, this bake is sure to impress. Enjoy it as a hearty side or make it the star of your meal!

Ingredients

Scale

2 large yellow onions
4 large Yukon Gold potatoes
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
½ cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
Crispy fried onions (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté onions in olive oil and butter over medium heat until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Stir in garlic powder, thyme, and broth, simmering for 5 minutes.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, followed by half the onion mixture and half the cheeses. Repeat layers.
Whisk together cream, salt, pepper, and thyme leaves; pour over layers.
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove foil, add extra cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.