French onion scalloped potatoes are like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine creamy, cheesy layers of tender potatoes, kissed with the caramelized sweetness of onions, all bubbling away in the oven. Creamy Cauliflower Mash This dish is comfort food at its finest, combining rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it an instant favorite at any gathering.
You know those moments when you take a bite of something and it just transports you back to your childhood? For me, it’s this French onion scalloped potatoes recipe. I remember sneaking into the kitchen while my mom prepared dinner, drawn in by the irresistible aroma wafting through the air. Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, these scalloped potatoes promise to impress everyone at your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones.
- Its flavor profile balances creamy richness with savory onion sweetness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Visually, the golden crust on top is simply irresistible and makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement any protein or serve as a hearty vegetarian main dish.
Ingredients for French Onion Scalloped Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Russet Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes for the best texture; they hold up well during baking.
- Onions: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully and add depth to the dish.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess; you can substitute with half-and-half if preferred.
- Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar enhances flavor; feel free to mix in Gruyère for extra indulgence.
- Butter: Essential for sautéing onions and greasing the baking dish; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Elevates flavor without overpowering; fresh garlic can also be used for a bolder taste.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste; these basic seasonings bring out all the other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Onion Scalloped Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, grab a large baking dish and give it a light coat of nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Sauté Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt about two tablespoons of butter. Add thinly sliced onions and sprinkle them with salt. Let them cook slowly until caramelized, stirring occasionally—this should take around 20 minutes.
Step 4: Layer It Up
In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the potato slices evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and garlic powder over them. Next, spread half of your caramelized onions on top followed by half of your cheese.
Step 5: Repeat Layers
Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese. Pour heavy cream over everything evenly until it just covers the top layer of potatoes.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about one hour. Remove the foil during the last fifteen minutes to let that glorious cheesy top turn golden brown.
Transfer to plates and enjoy every cheesy bite! This French onion scalloped potatoes recipe will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know
- These French Onion Scalloped Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a comfort food classic that can steal the show.
- The creamy layers of potatoes paired with savory onion flavors create a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best French Onion Scalloped Potatoes, start by caramelizing the onions until golden brown. While those sweet beauties are sizzling, prep your potatoes and cheese. Layer everything together and let the oven do the heavy lifting for perfectly cooked potatoes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these French Onion Scalloped Potatoes by adding different cheeses like Gruyère for extra richness or tossing in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. You can even throw in veggies like spinach or mushrooms to make it heartier! For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
Storing & Reheating
To store your French Onion Scalloped Potatoes, let them cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always slice your potatoes uniformly for even cooking; no one likes a crunchy potato among the creamy goodness.
- Don’t rush the onion caramelization; low and slow brings out their sweetness.
- Finally, let your dish rest for a few minutes after baking to set up perfectly!
Sharing my first attempt at French Onion Scalloped Potatoes was memorable! My friends raved about it, claiming it was like a warm hug on a plate. Their smiles made every effort worth it!
FAQs :
What are French Onion Scalloped Potatoes?
French Onion Scalloped Potatoes combine the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with creamy, layered potatoes. Instead of a broth base, this dish features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a luscious sauce made from caramelized onions and cheese. The result is a comforting side dish that elevates any meal with its savory taste and creamy texture.
How do I make French Onion Scalloped Potatoes healthier?
To create a healthier version of French Onion Scalloped Potatoes, consider using low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used or substitute it with a lower-fat variety. Incorporating more vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, not only boosts nutrients but also enhances the flavor profile while keeping the dish light.
Can I prepare French Onion Scalloped Potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare French Onion Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time! Simply assemble the dish without baking it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What dishes pair well with it ?
French Onion Scalloped Potatoes pair wonderfully with various main courses. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian casserole. Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Their creamy richness complements savory meats beautifully while also being delicious on their own as a comforting side dish for any occasion. Hashbrown Chicken Casserole.
Conclusion :
French Onion Scalloped Potatoes are an indulgent twist on classic comfort food. By layering tender potatoes with caramelized onions and rich cheese, this dish delivers incredible flavor and texture. You can easily customize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences, making it an adaptable recipe for any gathering. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian option, these scalloped potatoes will surely impress your guests and family alike! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
French Onion Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting delight of French Onion Scalloped Potatoes, where creamy layers of tender russet potatoes meet the rich, caramelized sweetness of onions. Topped with a golden crust of melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Its nostalgic flavors transport you back to cherished moments, making it a beloved addition to any meal. Serve it as a side or enjoy it as a hearty vegetarian main course that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch)
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a large baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and a pinch of salt; sauté until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish; season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Top with half the caramelized onions and half the cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese. Pour cream evenly over the top layer.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour; remove foil during the last 15 minutes for a golden crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, mix in Gruyère cheese or fresh herbs like thyme. - Add veggies such as spinach or mushrooms for a heartier dish.