French Onion Potato Bake

Name: French Onion Potato Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheese (Gruyère or Swiss preferred); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting fusion of creamy potatoes and rich, savory onion flavors in this French Onion Potato Bake. Layered with melty cheese and aromatic herbs, this dish brings a delightful twist to classic comfort food, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Serve it alongside your favorite soup for a heartwarming meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-23T06:09:43.619Z

This French Onion Potato Bake is a love letter to comfort food. The rich, savory onion flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes, creating a dish that warms the heart and soul.

A Comforting Classic with a Twist

French Onion Potato Bake is an exquisite dish that combines two beloved comfort foods: creamy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions. The rich flavors meld together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're preparing a family meal or hosting a gathering, this dish offers all the warmth and comfort you desire on chilly evenings.

Layered with velvety cheese and fragrant herbs, this recipe transforms the humble potato into a star participant at any dinner table. The golden-brown cheese, paired with the soft texture of baked potatoes and the savory onion flavor, makes every bite a celebration of flavors that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Perfect for Any Occasion

What makes French Onion Potato Bake so versatile is its ability to complement a variety of main courses. It pairs exceptionally well with a fresh garden salad, roasted meats, or even a hearty soup, making it the ideal side dish for any occasion. Consider serving it alongside a classic French onion soup for a delightful culinary pairing, enhancing your dining experience.

This dish is also an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings; it can be made ahead of time and reheated, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Plus, its presentation in a beautiful baking dish adds a touch of elegance to your dining table.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of French Onion Potato Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the flavors fresh, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to the container. This will prevent condensation from making the layers soggy, ensuring a delicious meal when you’re ready for seconds.

When it comes to reheating, simply place the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed. To achieve that gooey, melty cheese effect again, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for half the reheating time, then uncover for the last few minutes. This method preserves the texture and flavor, bringing back the delectable warmth of the original bake.

Ingredients

Ingredients for French Onion Potato Bake

2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheese (Gruyère or Swiss preferred)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized (about 30 minutes).

Layer the Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Add half of the caramelized onions on top, followed by half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.

Bake

Pour the heavy cream over the layered potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Cooking Tips for Success

For the best flavor in your French Onion Potato Bake, be sure to choose the right variety of potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well due to their creamy texture when baked, while providing a great balance with the savory onions and cheese. Avoid using waxy potatoes, as they can become watery and lack the necessary creaminess.

Caramelizing the onions is a crucial step that develops their natural sweetness. If you're short on time, consider using a slow cooker to caramelize onions ahead of time. Just cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until they’re deeply golden, which will provide an extra depth of flavor to your bake.

Ingredient Substitutions

While Gruyère and Swiss cheese are traditional choices for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties. Cheddar, Fontina, or even a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist to the dish. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to create that signature creamy layer.

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of cottage cheese and milk. This will provide a lighter version without compromising too much on flavor, allowing you to enjoy the comforting essence of this dish even when watching your calorie intake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or your favorite soup.