Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

If you’re looking for a side dish that will impress your family and friends while being incredibly comforting, then these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere are just what you need. This recipe takes the classic scalloped potato dish to a whole new level by adding sweet, golden onions and rich Gruyere cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings—everyone loves a delicious, cheesy side!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a stunning dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. Plus, it skips the béchamel sauce for a lighter take that still delivers on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up with confidence.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Creamy, cheesy goodness makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this dish in advance, making it a fantastic option for entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and Gruyere creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or casual dinners at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something special! These simple and wholesome ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe.

For the Scalloped Potatoes

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cups thinly sliced onions (sliced crosswise)
• 6 medium-small Yukon gold potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced (1/8-inch thick)
• 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided (1/2 cup, 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper if that is what you have)
• 1 teaspoon of butter to butter the gratin or casserole dish
• 1/3 cup stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable stock; use vegetable stock for vegetarian option)
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh rosemary

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

• Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using sharp cheddar or fontina instead of Gruyere for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or parsley to change the aroma and taste.

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes will cook evenly from the start.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a thick-bottomed sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your sliced onions and stir them well to coat in the oil. Cook until they turn golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and adds amazing flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced potatoes with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, half of the grated Gruyere cheese (1/2 cup), half of the grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), salt, and white pepper. Make sure every slice is well-coated; this helps prevent them from turning grey if you’re prepping ahead of time.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Lightly butter your gratin dish (2 to 3-quart capacity) or a 9 x 13-inch casserole. Spread the caramelized onions in an even layer at the bottom. Now arrange those beautiful potato slices over the onions in a lovely pattern. Pour your choice of stock over everything and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake it for about 50 minutes—or until fork-tender. Cooking it covered helps steam the potatoes while they cook through.

Step 6: Broil for Crunchiness

After baking, remove the aluminum foil and broil for about 5 minutes until lightly browned on top. This gives you that beautiful crispy finish that everyone loves! Finally, sprinkle with minced rosemary before serving.

Did you love this recipe? Let us know how it turned out by leaving a rating and review! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Creating the perfect scalloped potatoes can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use a mandoline for uniform slices: Slicing your Yukon gold potatoes to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, giving you that perfect creamy texture throughout.

• Don’t rush the onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions. The longer you cook them (while stirring occasionally), the sweeter and richer they’ll become, adding depth to your dish.

• Layer thoughtfully: Instead of just piling ingredients together, create layers of potatoes and caramelized onions. This not only enhances the flavor but also improves presentation.

• Experiment with cheese: While Gruyere is delicious, mixing in other cheeses like fontina or gouda can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile of your scalloped potatoes.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve while enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

These scalloped potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a centerpiece! Present them beautifully on your table for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary or thyme: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Chopped chives or green onions: Their mild onion flavor and vibrant green color make for an excellent visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender for a flavorful side that’s easy to prepare alongside your scalloped potatoes.

• Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the potatoes and adds freshness to your meal.

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For those looking for protein options, grilled chicken breast or fish like salmon pairs beautifully without overwhelming the flavors of the scalloped potatoes.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans lightly seasoned with salt and pepper provide a bright pop of color and crunch that complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to impress your family and guests with this scrumptious dish. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some helpful tips for storing and reheating.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and quality.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

• For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra deliciousness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use other cheeses in Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere?

Absolutely! While Gruyere adds a wonderful flavor, you could substitute it with cheeses like cheddar or fontina. Just ensure that they melt well.

How do I prevent my Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere from turning brown?

To keep your potatoes looking fresh, coat them well with olive oil as soon as they’re sliced. This helps prevent oxidation.

Can I make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere without stock?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use water or vegetable broth for a lighter version. This will still maintain moisture during baking.

What is the best way to slice potatoes for scalloped potatoes?

Using a mandoline is ideal for achieving even thickness (about 1/8 inch). This ensures that all slices cook evenly and achieve that perfect tender texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere! This dish not only warms your heart but also elevates any meal. It’s a celebration of comfort food that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to add your own twist. Happy cooking!