French Onion Potato Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Potato Bake combines two beloved comfort foods—creamy potatoes and rich French onion flavor—into one irresistible side dish. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with caramelized onions, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese to create a golden, bubbly bake that’s hearty enough to steal the spotlight on any dinner table. I tried making this with Gruyère cheese instead of the usual cheddar, and it added a deep, nutty flavor that paired perfectly with the sweet onions. Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, steak, or enjoying it as a stand-alone vegetarian main, this dish delivers a cozy, restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. They hold their shape while turning tender and creamy in the oven. Slice them thinly for even cooking.

Onions – Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, developing that signature sweet and savory French onion flavor. Take your time sautéing them slowly to a golden-brown perfection.

Butter – Used to caramelize the onions and add richness to the sauce. The butter’s creaminess complements the earthy potatoes beautifully.

Olive oil – Helps the onions cook evenly without burning, blending with butter for the perfect sauté base.

Garlic – Minced garlic enhances the aroma and adds depth to the onion mixture.

Beef broth – Adds a savory base reminiscent of French onion soup. It infuses the potatoes with deep, comforting flavor.

Heavy cream – Gives the bake its creamy texture and helps bind the layers together for a luxurious consistency.

Gruyère cheese – Melts smoothly with a slightly nutty flavor, ideal for replicating the classic French onion soup topping. You can substitute with Swiss or mozzarella.

Thyme – A subtle herb that balances the sweetness of the onions and adds freshness to the dish.

Salt and black pepper – Simple but essential seasonings to enhance every layer’s flavor.

Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty finish on top that crisps beautifully as it bakes.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the thyme and remove from heat.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the caramelized onion mixture over the top, then sprinkle with half the Gruyère cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the entire dish, letting it seep between the layers.

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, cooking time is around 1 hour, totaling 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warm and bubbly. You can also freeze the unbaked dish for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesy Loaded Version – Add crispy bacon bits and green onions for a loaded potato twist.

Vegetarian Option – Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free version.

Mushroom and Onion Bake – Add sautéed mushrooms to the onion mixture for an earthy, umami-rich flavor.

Extra Creamy Style – Mix in a bit of cream cheese with the heavy cream for extra silkiness.

French Onion Soup Inspired – Top with toasted baguette slices and more Gruyère cheese before the final bake for that signature soup finish.

Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the cream mixture.

Herb Infusion – Add fresh rosemary or parsley to the cream for added fragrance.

Sweet Onion Twist – Use Vidalia onions for a slightly sweeter, milder taste.

Cheddar Swap – Replace Gruyère with sharp cheddar for a more robust, familiar cheesy flavor.

Mini Servings – Bake in individual ramekins for elegant single-serve portions at dinner parties.

FAQs

What type of potato is best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best—they stay tender without falling apart.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use store-bought French onion soup mix?

You can, but caramelizing fresh onions provides a richer, homemade flavor.

What’s the best cheese for French Onion Potato Bake?

Gruyère is ideal for its meltability and nutty flavor, but Swiss or cheddar also work well.

How do I keep the potatoes from turning gray?

Slice them right before layering or keep them submerged in cold water until ready to use.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes, use milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken, though it won’t be as rich.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, steak, pork chops, or a crisp green salad.

How can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Yes, diced ham, shredded chicken, or ground beef can be added between layers.

How long does it need to rest after baking?

Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the sauce thickens and the layers hold together.

Conclusion

French Onion Potato Bake is a heartwarming, flavor-packed side dish that captures all the depth of French onion soup in creamy, cheesy potato form. With its golden crust, tender layers, and rich caramelized onions, it’s the kind of recipe that transforms any meal into something memorable. Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort. Serve it bubbling hot from the oven and watch it disappear fast.