Name: French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried); 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; ½ cup sour cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of caramelized onions wafting through your kitchen, and when paired with creamy, tender potatoes, it’s a match made in culinary heaven. French Onion Stuffed Potatoes take the best parts of the classic soup and transform them into a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly evening, craving something cozy yet a little different from the usual baked potato routine. It quickly became a household favorite, and now it’s my go-to when I want something special but simple. Let me show you how easy it is to make these show-stopping stuffed potatoes!

Why You'll Love This French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this savory and satisfying recipe. French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are everything you love about comfort food, bundled into one irresistible dish.

First off, the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable. Caramelized onions, melted cheese, and fluffy potato come together in perfect harmony, creating a taste sensation you won’t forget.

These potatoes are surprisingly easy to prepare. With a little time and a handful of basic ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

They’re also wonderfully versatile. Serve them as a hearty side dish alongside roast chicken or beef, or enjoy them as a standalone vegetarian main course that’s guaranteed to impress.

Finally, this recipe is great for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of French Onion Stuffed Potatoes lies in its combination of simple ingredients, each contributing to the dish's rich, savory flavor.

Russet potatoes are the foundation of this recipe. Their sturdy skins and fluffy interiors make them the perfect vessel for the flavorful filling. Be sure to choose large, evenly sized potatoes for consistent results.

Yellow onions are the star of the show. When caramelized, they develop a deep, sweet flavor that defines this dish. Be patient while cooking them – low and slow is the key to perfection.

Beef broth adds an extra layer of umami, enhancing the flavor of the caramelized onions. If you’re making this dish vegetarian, you can easily substitute it with vegetable broth.

Gruyère cheese is a classic choice for French onion dishes, thanks to its nutty, melty goodness. If you can’t find Gruyère, Swiss or even mozzarella will work well.

Butter and olive oil combine to create the ideal base for caramelizing the onions. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil prevents burning.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a baking sheet, a skillet, and a sturdy spoon for scooping out the potatoes.

How To Make French Onion Stuffed Potatoes

Making these potatoes is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success.

Start by baking your potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prick the potatoes with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a knife.

While the potatoes bake, caramelize the onions. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt, then cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and jammy. This process takes about 25-30 minutes but is well worth the effort.

Once the onions are caramelized, deglaze the skillet with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed, then remove it from the heat.

When the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before slicing off the tops and scooping out the insides. Be careful not to break the skins, as they’ll hold the filling. Mash the scooped-out potato with butter, a splash of cream, and half of the shredded Gruyère cheese.

Fold the caramelized onions into the mashed potato mixture, then spoon it back into the potato skins. Top with the remaining cheese and return the potatoes to the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Storage Options

These stuffed potatoes store beautifully, making them perfect for leftovers.

To refrigerate, place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the stuffed potatoes individually in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

When reheating, thaw frozen potatoes in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste!

For a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef broth for vegetable broth. The flavor will remain rich and delicious.

Love mushrooms? Add some sautéed mushrooms to the onion mixture for an earthy twist.

For a spicy kick, sprinkle the filling with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika before baking.

If Gruyère isn’t your favorite, try sharp cheddar or a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different cheesy experience.

You can also make mini versions of these stuffed potatoes using baby potatoes for a fun appetizer or party snack.

French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!