Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! These scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere create a deliciously creamy and cheesy experience without the heaviness of a traditional béchamel sauce. This recipe has become a beloved favorite in my kitchen, especially during family gatherings or busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet easy to prepare.

What makes this dish extra special is the combination of sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyere cheese, which elevate the classic scalloped potatoes to new heights. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a simple dinner at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The rich flavors make it appealing for kids and adults alike—everyone loves cheesy potatoes!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this dish in advance, saving you time on busy days while still serving something homemade.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese creates an irresistible taste that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side for any meal, from everyday dinners to special occasions like Christmas or Easter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these scalloped potatoes is part of the fun! They are all simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Potatoes

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 6 medium-small Yukon gold potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled, thinly sliced (1/8-inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper if that is what you have)

For the Onions

• 4 cups thinly sliced onions (sliced crosswise)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided (1/2 cup, 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other Ingredients

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap Gruyere with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina to try different flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or chives to give your dish an aromatic twist.
• Creamy Twist: For an even creamier texture, layer in some sour cream or Greek yogurt between potato layers.

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that once your dish is prepared, it can go straight into a hot oven, promoting even cooking and browning.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium-high heat in a thick-bottomed sauté pan. Add those lovely sliced onions and stir them around until they’re coated with oil. Cook them until they turn golden brown—this should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Sautéing releases their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss your thinly sliced potatoes with another tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 cup of grated Gruyere cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and white pepper. It’s essential that every potato slice gets coated so they don’t turn grey if made ahead. This mixture will be bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Butter your large gratin dish lightly. Start by lining it with those beautifully caramelized onions in an even layer at the bottom. Then arrange the cheese-coated potato slices over them in a pattern that pleases your eye. Pour stock over everything for moisture and sprinkle on the remaining cheese for that lovely golden crust.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake it for about 50 minutes until fork-tender. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Broil and Serve

Once baked, remove the foil and broil uncovered for another 5 minutes until everything is lightly browned on top. Finally, sprinkle fresh rosemary over your masterpiece before serving—this adds not just flavor but also a lovely aromatic touch!

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Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Making scalloped potatoes can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use a Mandoline for Slicing: A mandoline slicer allows you to achieve uniform potato slices, which cook evenly and help create that perfect creamy texture.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions. Slowly cooking them brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth of flavor to your dish.

• Layer Wisely: When arranging your potatoes in the dish, alternate layers of potatoes and cheese for even distribution of flavors. This ensures that every bite is deliciously cheesy!

• Check for Tenderness: Before removing the foil, check if the potatoes are fork-tender. If they need more time, cover them again and continue baking until they’re soft.

• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses! Adding a bit of sharp cheddar or fontina can enhance the flavor profile while keeping that gooey texture.

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting it well can enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting favorite.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herb Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme on top not only add color but also intensify the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these crispy sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of scalloped potatoes.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add a pop of color and freshness to your plate; they can be lightly seasoned with lemon juice for added zest.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance against the richness of the potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For those looking for protein options, grilled chicken or marinated tofu adds heartiness and pairs wonderfully with the cheesy potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re set to impress family and friends at your next gathering. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

These scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making your mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before freezing.
• Cover the gratin dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For a crispy top, broil for an additional 5 minutes after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Gruyere in scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! While Gruyere adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack if you prefer. The key is to use a cheese that melts well!

How do I make scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere vegetarian?

To ensure your scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere remain vegetarian, simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock. This keeps the rich flavors while staying true to a vegetarian diet.

Can I add other vegetables to my scalloped potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture when baked. However, you can also use Russet or red-skinned potatoes if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere! This recipe elevates a classic side dish into something truly special, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or during the holidays, it’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with us!