If you’re a fan of French onion soup, get ready to fall in love with this hearty twist — French Onion Potatoes. Imagine tender potatoes roasted to perfection, bathed in a caramelized onion and beefy broth sauce, then blanketed in melted cheese. This dish is everything we love about comfort food: warm, cheesy, savory, and soul-satisfying.
Perfect as a side for grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even as the star of a meatless meal, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight and decadent enough for the holiday table.
🧅 Why You’ll Love French Onion Potatoes
- Inspired by French Onion Soup: Rich, caramelized flavor in every bite.
- Cheesy & Comforting: Gooey, golden cheese baked right on top.
- Perfect Side Dish or Main: Pairs with just about any protein.
- Crowd Pleaser: Great for potlucks, dinner parties, or family dinners.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made from pantry and fridge staples.
🥔 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements – Serves 6)
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
2. Caramelize the onions:
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until golden and caramelized. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Deglaze and build flavor:
Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth to the onions. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Layer the potatoes:
In the prepared baking dish, spread half the sliced potatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Spoon half of the onion mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and onion mixture.
5. Add cheese:
Sprinkle shredded Gruyère evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
7. Garnish and serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
🔍 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
This dish is hearty and indulgent — perfect for special occasions or when you need a little comfort.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Make it ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Use a mandoline: For evenly sliced potatoes that cook uniformly.
- Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth.
- Vegetarian version: Use veggie broth and skip Worcestershire (or use a vegan Worcestershire).
- Cheese options: Swiss, mozzarella, fontina, or even sharp cheddar work beautifully.
🌟 Something Extra From Me to You
For an extra cozy upgrade, add a splash of cream to the onion mixture before layering for a gratin-style dish. Or, take it over the top by topping with fried shallots or crispy onions just before serving — it’s like the best parts of green bean casserole and French onion soup had a baby!
These French Onion Potatoes also make an excellent base for a hearty breakfast — just top leftovers with a fried or poached egg!
