Description
These hearty French Onion Baked Potatoes combine the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with the comforting fluffiness of baked potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal.
Ingredients
Scale
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For the Potatoes:
- 4 large baking potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold – tender and fluffy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing – for a crisp exterior)
For the Onions:
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced – the base of rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to enhance caramelization)
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided – for seasoning throughout)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for a subtle kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (adds earthy notes)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian – deglazing for depth)
Topping:
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese (shredded – gooey, melty goodness)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, optional – for garnish and freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry potatoes. Poke them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes until crisp outside and tender inside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions, sprinkle with sugar, and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
- Stir in thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper.
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes
- Remove potatoes from the oven and cool slightly.
- Slice each potato lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently fluff the insides with a fork.
- Spoon the caramelized onion mixture evenly into the potatoes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
- Top each potato with shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute Gruyère with Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- These potatoes pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg