Description
This easy French onion scalloped potatoes recipe combines thinly sliced russet potatoes layered with a creamy, cheesy sauce enriched with sweet caramelized onions. It delivers comforting, rich flavors reminiscent of classic French onion soup, perfect as a savory side dish for holidays, weeknight dinners, or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes & Onions
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch/3mm thick)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (substitute Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar if desired)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions. Melt butter in a large skillet over low heat, add the onions and minced garlic, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and sweetly fragrant.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, cooking over medium heat until the sauce thickens into a silky, smooth consistency. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Slice the Potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the russet potatoes thinly and evenly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform slices.
- Layer the Potatoes and Sauce: Butter a baking dish. Arrange one-third of the potato slices in an even layer, pour over one-third of the creamy onion sauce, and sprinkle with some Gruyère cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times until all potatoes, sauce, and Gruyère are used.
- Add Parmesan and Bake: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, until the dish is bubbling and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking to set up and allow the flavors to meld, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Caramelize onions slowly on low heat for maximum sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Season each layer lightly to build balanced flavor throughout the dish.
- Allow the dish to rest after baking for neat slicing and enhanced taste melding.
- Make ahead by assembling the dish, covering, and refrigerating until ready to bake.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Optional toppings include toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions for added texture.
- To add a spicy kick, incorporate cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: French onion, scalloped potatoes, caramelized onions, creamy potatoes, cheesy side dish, comfort food, holiday side, make-ahead
