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: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 3 large onions, caramelized; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 2 cups heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting French Onion Potato Bake. Layers of creamy potatoes meld with caramelized onions and gooey cheese, creating a rich, savory side dish that's a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, this recipe will impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-01T16:18:34.360Z

This French Onion Potato Bake is not just a dish; it's a celebration of autumn flavors that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Perfect for gatherings, it's a crowd-pleaser.

The Perfect Fall Comfort Dish

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, hearty dish. The French Onion Potato Bake embodies the essence of fall with its aromatic blend of caramelized onions and creamy potatoes. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors that evoke cozy evenings spent around the dinner table. This dish not only satisfies your appetite but also warms your soul, making it an ideal centerpiece for your autumn gatherings.

Incorporating classic French onion soup elements, this bake transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. The richness of Gruyère cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of the onions, creating a dish that is both familiar and indulgent. Whether served as a side for holiday dinners or as a main course paired with a green salad, this recipe is sure to impress.

A Versatile Side Dish

What makes this French Onion Potato Bake truly special is its versatility. While it shines as a side dish during Thanksgiving or festive occasions, it also works beautifully for casual family meals or potluck gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The options are endless, making it a go-to recipe for any season.

Additionally, this bake can be prepared ahead of time, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Ingredients for French Onion Potato Bake

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
3 large onions, caramelized
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
2 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Preparation Steps

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Layer the ingredients

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the caramelized onions, and half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.

Add cream

Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top layer of cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme and serving.

Enjoy this delicious dish at your next gathering!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some garlic or nutmeg to the cream before pouring it over the layers.

Why Choose Gruyère Cheese?

Choosing the right cheese for your French Onion Potato Bake is crucial, and Gruyère cheese is an excellent choice. Known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, Gruyère melts beautifully, creating a rich, creamy texture that brings the entire dish together. Unlike some cheeses, it stays smooth and does not become stringy, making it perfect for layering in this bake.

In addition to its meltability, Gruyère adds a depth of flavor that complements the caramelized onions. If Gruyère isn’t available, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or even cheddar, but be prepared for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will impart its unique characteristics, giving you room to experiment with flavors.

Healthier Modifications

If you're looking to lighten up this French Onion Potato Bake, consider using lower-fat alternatives without sacrificing flavor. For instance, substituting half of the heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk can reduce calories while still providing a creamy consistency. You can also opt for low-fat cheese varieties that melt well, allowing you to maintain that cheesy goodness you crave.

Moreover, try incorporating more vegetables into the dish. Adding layers of spinach, kale, or even roasted bell peppers can not only boost the nutritional content but also enhance the flavors and colors, making the dish even more visually appealing. These modifications ensure that you can enjoy this delicious bake while keeping health considerations in check.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

→ What type of cheese can I use?

Gruyère is ideal, but you can substitute with Swiss or mozzarella.