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French onion potatoes are pure comfort food taking all the flavors you love from French onion soup and blending them into a creamy potato bake. I make this rich casserole for gatherings and it always disappears in minutes. It is the kind of dish everyone asks for the recipe after their first bite.
I first made this when my grandma requested something homey and hearty after a long drive. Now it is our signature family casserole for Sunday suppers.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: Medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best Choose firm potatoes without eyes or spots for best texture
- French onion soup mix: This brings intense onion flavor with savory undertones Look for a quality brand with real onion pieces
- Sour cream: Adds creamy tang and keeps the bake moist Go for full fat for richness
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and gives a bold flavor Freshly grated is best
- Butter: Melted butter helps everything meld and adds richness Choose real unsalted butter
- Milk: Loosens the cream mixture just enough Whole milk works best for a creamy results
- Salt and pepper: Bring out the flavor of the other ingredients Taste your mixture before adding too much
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and help the potatoes crisp at the edges
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large bowl whisk together sour cream milk melted butter and French onion soup mix Stir until the mixture is smooth with no lumps
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice potatoes to about one eighth inch thickness Layer them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish overlapping slightly so every bite is creamy
- Add Flavor and Bake:
- Pour the creamy mixture over the sliced potatoes making sure every piece is well coated so nothing dries out Cover with aluminum foil
- Bake Covered:
- Place dish in a three hundred fifty degree oven and bake for forty five minutes This steams the potatoes so they cook all the way through
- Top with Cheese and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top Place dish back in the oven and bake uncovered fifteen minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown
- Serve:
- Let cool for about five minutes This helps everything settle and makes serving easier Serve hot and enjoy
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My favorite part is the cheesy crispy corners There is always a scramble at the table for those golden bits. My sister once ate almost half the dish after her wedding shower because she loved the creamy center so much.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days. To reheat use a low oven or microwave portions until warm. For best texture avoid freezing as dairy can separate.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you want a tangier flavor. If you do not have cheddar try Colby or Monterey Jack for a milder melt. For extra onion flavor sprinkle in caramelized onions or cooked leeks.
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Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roast meats grilled chicken or holiday hams. I love a simple green salad or steamed veggie alongside to lighten the meal. Serve this at potlucks and watch it vanish in minutes.
Cultural Context
French onion potatoes are classic Americana comfort food inspired by the French onion soup tradition. The marriage of creamy potatoes and oniony flavor has roots in home cooking traditions around the world.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of potato works best?
Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds are ideal for tender, creamy layers that hold up during baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate; add the cheese and bake just before serving.
- → Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeled potatoes give a smoother texture, but leaving skins on adds rustic flavor and nutrients.
- → How do I avoid watery potatoes?
Slice potatoes thinly and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes to evaporate excess moisture and melt the cheese.
- → Can I add other cheeses or toppings?
Absolutely! Try mixing in mozzarella for stretch or topping with crispy fried onions before serving.