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; 2 large onions, sliced; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this French Onion Potato Bake, a delightful twist on a classic dish. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes are bathed in a savory onion and cheese sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering. This heartwarming side dish pairs beautifully with turkey or ham, making it a must-try for your holiday feast.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-11-13T07:51:00.995Z

This dish is inspired by traditional French onion soup, reimagined into a comforting casserole. Perfect for gatherings, it brings together layers of flavor that everyone will love.

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something uniquely comforting about a baked dish that combines tender potatoes, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese. French Onion Potato Bake elevates these traditional ingredients into a warm and hearty option that can satisfy any lingering hunger. The rich, savory flavors meld together to create a dish that is both nostalgic and unique, perfect for cozy family gatherings.

With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, this dish not only offers incredible taste but also showcases a beautiful presentation. As the potatoes bake, they absorb the flavors of the broth and heavy cream, resulting in a creamy texture that is utterly irresistible. It’s a dish that you’ll want to return to time and time again, especially during the colder months.

A Versatile Side Dish

One of the remarkable aspects of French Onion Potato Bake is its versatility. While it shines as a side dish for holiday meals, it can also easily transition into the star of any weeknight dinner. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables, and you have a complete meal that is both satisfying and elegant. The combination of flavors works wonderfully with various proteins, from roasted chicken to succulent beef.

This recipe is also adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Trying different types of cheese can change the flavor profile significantly; consider substituting Gruyère with cheddar or mozzarella for a different twist. You can even explore adding additional ingredients like cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for French Onion Potato Bake

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 large onions, sliced
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start assembling the bake.

Instructions

Prepare the Onions

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring frequently.

Layer the Potatoes

In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Add the Cheese and Sauce

Add a layer of the caramelized onions and then sprinkle with a portion of the Gruyère cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake the Dish

Pour the beef broth and heavy cream evenly over the layered ingredients. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover French Onion Potato Bake is simple and straightforward. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation. If freezing, make sure to layer it in portions for easier reheating later.

When it comes to reheating, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after being frozen. For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before heating can help revive its creamy, cheesy quality.

Customization Ideas

Looking to give your French Onion Potato Bake a twist? Consider experimenting with various herbs and spices. Incorporating garlic or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile even further. Don't hesitate to add a splash of white wine to the broth for an added depth, or mix in some sautéed vegetables to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

You can also make this dish gluten-free by ensuring your beef broth is gluten-free or replacing it with a vegetable broth. This makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions, making sure everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful comfort food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use a vegetarian cheese.