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French Onion Potato Bake

A comforting casserole featuring layers of creamy potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced Fresh onions provide the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Essential for caramelizing the onions.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Aids in caramelization and prevents burning.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Helps to draw moisture out of the onions.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth to balance the sweetness of onions.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) Speeds up caramelization, not mandatory.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme) Pairs beautifully with onions.
  • ½ cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version) Adds depth of flavor.

For the Bake

  • 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick Creamy texture holds up well in the bake.
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing) To prevent sticking.
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese Provides maximum melty goodness.
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds extra flavor on top.
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk Binds flavors together.
  • ½ teaspoon salt To season the cream mixture.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves Elevates the dish.
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish For a decorative touch.
  • Extra peanuts Parmesan cheese For that crispy top.

Instructions
 

Caramelizing the Onions

  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, and stir.
  • Cook slowly for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and sweeten.
  • Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder and ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh) to the onions. Pour in ½ cup beef or vegetable broth and let simmer until slightly thickened. Set aside.

Preparing the Potatoes

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform ¼-inch rounds. Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.

Assembling the Bake

  • Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish, followed by half of the caramelized onions, 1 cup Gruyère cheese, and some Parmesan.
  • Repeat with a second layer until all ingredients are used, finishing with potatoes, remaining onions, and cheese.
  • In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup heavy cream, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves. Pour this mixture over the layers.

Baking

  • Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Serving

  • Let it sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. This bake tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 12gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Baked Potatoes, Cheesy Casserole, Comfort Food, French Onion, Potato Bake
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