If you have a soft spot for comforting, savory side dishes that bring a nostalgic warmth to the table, then this French Onion Potatoes Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It combines tender, perfectly baked potatoes with the deep, caramelized sweetness of French onions and a creamy, tangy twist thanks to sour cream. Each bite bursts with layered flavors that feel both hearty and indulgent, making it an ideal companion for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. Let me walk you through how this irresistible dish comes together with simple ingredients that elevate humble spuds into a spectacular showstopper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this French Onion Potatoes Recipe is simple yet essential, balancing taste, texture, and color. From buttery potatoes to sweet onions and a touch of cheddar for that golden finish, these components work magic together.
- Yukon gold or russet potatoes (2 pounds): Their creamy interior and sturdy texture hold up beautifully during baking, soaking in all the flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides just the right amount of healthy fat to caramelize the onions without overpowering their natural sweetness.
- Large yellow onion (1, thinly sliced): The star of the dish, slowly cooked until golden and caramelized for deep, rich flavor.
- French onion soup mix (1 packet): Adds authentic French onion seasoning to enhance every bite with classic umami and herbs.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings a luscious creaminess that binds the potatoes and onions perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a melty, golden crust that fans will adore.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to brighten and season without stealing the spotlight.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): A pop of green freshness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir frequently for about 10 to 12 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and caramelize. This step unlocks sweetness and complexity, setting the flavor foundation for the entire dish.
Step 2: Toss the Potatoes with Flavors
In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes with the French onion soup mix, sour cream, black pepper, and half of your caramelized onions. Mix everything thoroughly so the potatoes are evenly coated in that rich, creamy, and savory blend that gives this recipe its signature taste.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top if you’re using it. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the surface turns beautifully golden. For an extra crisp top, briefly broil during the last few minutes.
How to Serve French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it brightens the rich, creamy potatoes with a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the caramelized onion flavors perfectly. Feel free to add a dollop of sour cream on the side for a cooling contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or beef, adding a comforting starch component that complements juicy main courses. It also shines alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the French Onion Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also layer the mixture with extra cheese and breadcrumbs before baking to create a gratin-style side dish that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked French Onion Potatoes Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain a creamy texture, or microwave portions for a quick fix, stirring halfway through so the heat distributes evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon gold and russet potatoes work best for texture and flavor, but red potatoes or fingerlings can be used if you prefer a waxier bite, though they may not be as fluffy inside.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based shredded cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the potatoes and onions the night before, then cover and refrigerate before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining.
What makes the French onion soup mix so special here?
The soup mix is packed with concentrated onion flavor, herbs, and seasonings that give the potatoes an authentic French onion soup taste without any extra fuss.
How can I make the top crispier?
For a delightfully crispy top, remove the foil during the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking and broil on high for 2 to 3 minutes just before serving, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a tasty, cozy side dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to put together, the French Onion Potatoes Recipe is guaranteed to delight. Whether it’s a familiar weeknight supper or a festive holiday spread, this dish brings comforting goodness with every forkful. Give it a try soon, and watch it become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.
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French Onion Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Potatoes are a delicious, comforting side dish featuring tender Yukon gold or russet potatoes coated in a savory blend of French onion soup mix, caramelized onions, and creamy sour cream, then baked to golden perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes later.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, for 10 to 12 minutes until they become caramelized and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Toss Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes with the French onion soup mix, sour cream, black pepper, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix thoroughly until potatoes are well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Assemble Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the potato mixture into it, spreading evenly. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and absorb flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and golden brown on top.
- Optional Broil: For a crispier cheese topping, broil the potatoes for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm as a tasty side dish.
Notes
- For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
