Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish that will warm your heart and impress your guests, then these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere are just what you need. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic scalloped potatoes, featuring sweet caramelized onions and rich Gruyere cheese. Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly delicious without the fuss of a heavy béchamel sauce. The combination of creamy potatoes layered with sweet onions and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor of these scalloped potatoes.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Caramelizing the onions adds a natural sweetness that beautifully complements the savory cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to make these scrumptious scalloped potatoes!

For the Potatoes and Onions

• 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, 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

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper if that is what you have)

Other Essentials

• 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 quite flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Extra Veggies: Consider layering in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change Up the Cheese: If Gruyere isn’t available, try using sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a thick-bottomed sauté pan. Add those lovely sliced onions and stir them around to coat with the oil. Cook them until they turn golden brown—this should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember, caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes with another tablespoon of olive oil, along with 1/2 cup of grated Gruyere cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and white pepper. Make sure every slice is well-coated; this keeps them vibrant and prevents them from turning grey if you’re prepping ahead.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Lightly butter a large gratin dish or casserole (about 2-3 quarts). Start by spreading the caramelized onions in an even layer at the bottom. Then arrange those beautifully coated potato slices over the onions in an attractive pattern. Pour your chosen stock over everything and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until fork tender. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Finish Under the Broiler

Once baked, remove the foil and switch on your broiler. Broil uncovered for about 5 minutes until everything is lightly browned on top. Finally, sprinkle some minced rosemary over the finished dish before serving—it adds such a lovely aroma!

Did you enjoy making these scalloped potatoes? We’d love to hear how yours turned out!

Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Making scalloped potatoes can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use a mandoline for even slices – This ensures that your potatoes cook uniformly, resulting in a perfectly tender texture throughout the dish.

• Don’t rush the caramelization – Taking your time to slowly caramelize the onions enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor, making your dish even more delicious.

• Layer it right – Alternating layers of potatoes and cheese with the caramelized onions not only looks stunning but also allows flavors to meld beautifully as they bake.

• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the scalloped potatoes to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the layers settle, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with cheeses – While Gruyere is fantastic, blending in some sharp cheddar or creamy fontina can give your dish an exciting twist. Plus, different cheeses bring varied flavor profiles that can make this classic recipe uniquely yours!

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Presenting this dish can turn any meal into an occasion! The golden-brown top and creamy layers promise to impress at any gathering or cozy family dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs – A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile.
• Chopped chives – Their mild onion flavor complements the dish wonderfully, adding a vibrant green touch on top.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these add a lovely crunch alongside the creamy potatoes.
• Green salad with vinaigrette – A light salad brings balance to the richness of scalloped potatoes; opt for mixed greens topped with a tangy dressing for freshness.
• Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up every creamy bite, buttery garlic bread makes for a comforting addition.
• Steamed asparagus or green beans – Lightly steamed veggies provide a crisp contrast in texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of the potatoes.

By incorporating these garnishes and side dishes, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the scalloped potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the scalloped potatoes after cooling.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and use within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scalloped potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Gruyere?

Absolutely! While Gruyere adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cheeses like Fontina or aged Cheddar. Just make sure your choice is melt-friendly.

How do I prevent my scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere from turning grey?

Tossing the sliced potatoes with olive oil as soon as they are cut helps prevent oxidation. If you’re prepping ahead, keep them well coated until ready to bake.

Can I make scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere without stock?

Yes! If you prefer, you can simply use water instead of stock. However, stock enhances the overall flavor, making it more savory.

How long do scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere brings warmth to your table. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a comforting hug on your plate! Enjoy every cheesy bite, and feel free to experiment with different toppings or sides. Happy cooking!