French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of caramelized onions and creamy potatoes. French Onion Stuffed Potatoes bring together the rich, savory flavors of the classic soup with the comforting, satisfying texture of a baked potato. Each bite delivers buttery softness, melty cheese, and the deep sweetness of perfectly caramelized onions.

this Recipe

I first came across this recipe while trying to reinvent our usual baked potato night. What started as a simple twist quickly turned into a family favorite, perfect for cozy evenings or as a standout side dish for dinner parties. Ready to bring a little French bistro charm to your table? Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to transform humble potatoes into an extraordinary dish. This recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to impress.

First, these stuffed potatoes are a fantastic way to elevate a basic ingredient. The creamy interior, infused with butter and cheese, contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp potato skin.

Second, the caramelized onions are a showstopper. They add a luxurious sweetness and depth of flavor that makes this dish feel gourmet without the high cost or complexity.

This recipe is also surprisingly versatile. Serve it as a hearty side dish for roasted chicken or steak, or enjoy it as a main course with a fresh salad on the side.

Finally, it’s a meal prep hero! These potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed, making them perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of French Onion Stuffed Potatoes lies in using simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a balance of flavors and textures.

Start with russet potatoes. Their sturdy skins and fluffy interiors make them the ideal choice for stuffing. Bake them until tender, then carefully scoop out the insides to create a perfect shell.

For the onions, use yellow onions for their natural sweetness. Slicing them thinly and cooking them slowly in butter allows their sugars to caramelize, turning them a deep golden brown.

You'll also need gruyère cheese. Its nutty, slightly salty flavor is the perfect match for the onions and potatoes. You can substitute with Swiss cheese if needed, but gruyère truly elevates the dish.

To bring everything together, a bit of butter and sour cream is mixed with the scooped potato, creating a creamy, rich filling. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a touch of herbaceous brightness.

Finally, you’ll need beef broth. A small splash is added to the caramelized onions to echo the classic French onion soup flavor.

How to Make French Onion Stuffed Potatoes

Creating this flavorful dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for perfectly stuffed potatoes every time.

Begin by baking your russet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F, prick the potatoes with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for about 50-60 minutes until tender. Let them cool slightly before handling.

While the potatoes bake, caramelize the onions. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat, add thinly sliced onions, and cook slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should turn golden and soft. Add a splash of beef broth and a pinch of salt to deglaze the pan and intensify the flavor.

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice off the tops and scoop out the insides, leaving a thin layer to support the skin. In a bowl, mash the scooped potato with butter, sour cream, and half of the grated gruyère cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Fill the potato shells with the mashed mixture, topping each with caramelized onions and a generous sprinkle of the remaining cheese. Return them to the oven and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately. The combination of crispy skin, creamy filling, and gooey cheese is absolutely irresistible.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, French Onion Stuffed Potatoes store beautifully. Let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.

Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze the stuffed potatoes before their final bake. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients.

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for beef broth. The caramelized onions still provide plenty of savory depth.

Add protein by mixing cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or crumbled sausage into the mashed potato filling.

For a lighter option, swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese. You’ll still get a creamy, delicious result with fewer calories.

To make mini versions, use small Yukon Gold potatoes and adjust the baking time accordingly. These are perfect for appetizers or party platters.

Finally, switch up the cheese! While gruyère is the traditional choice, cheddar, fontina, or even blue cheese can add a new twist to the flavor profile.

French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated edge. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy night in or wowing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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