Rich, savory, and bubbling with melted cheese, this French Onion Potato Bake is pure comfort food magic. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, and a golden crown of melted gruyère or Swiss, every bite delivers cozy, nostalgic flavor that feels like a warm hug. It’s a dish that brings the elegance of French onion soup and the heartiness of a potato casserole into one irresistible bake.

Perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners, it’s a recipe that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to pull off. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving something indulgent, this potato bake will steal the show. Serve it as a side dish with roast meats or as a main with a leafy salad. Either way, it’s going to be the most requested dish on your table.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Potato Bake

There’s something timeless about the combination of caramelized onions and potatoes. It brings depth, sweetness, and a touch of decadence to every spoonful. The bake becomes creamy from the broth and cheese melting into the layers, while the top gets beautifully crispy. It’s the best of both textures.

This recipe also happens to be incredibly versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time, make it vegetarian, or add bits of bacon or ham for extra richness. It works just as well on a weeknight as it does on a special occasion.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Yukon Golds are the top choice here. Their creamy texture holds up well during baking without falling apart, and they soak up the broth and onion flavor beautifully. You can also use Russets if that’s what you have on hand, but be mindful they might get a little softer. If you’re aiming for the prettiest presentation, use a mandoline to get thin, even slices.

Ingredients for the French Onion Potato Bake

When it comes to simple ingredients, this recipe proves that humble pantry staples can create something extraordinary. The real key is taking your time with the onions. Let them caramelize low and slow until they’re sweet and golden—that’s where the flavor lives.

Yellow onions – They caramelize into a sweet, rich base and are the heart of the recipe.
Yukon Gold potatoes – Their creamy texture holds up beautifully when baked.
Butter – Helps the onions caramelize and adds richness.
Beef broth – Deepens the flavor and gives the dish that French onion soup vibe.
Gruyère or Swiss cheese – Melts perfectly and delivers nutty, gooey goodness.
Thyme – Adds an earthy, aromatic touch.
Garlic – Just a little, to boost the savory depth.
Salt and pepper – Essential for balance.

How To Make the French Onion Potato Bake

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced yellow onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for about 30-40 minutes until deep golden brown. Add the garlic and thyme in the last few minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Wash and thinly slice the Yukon Gold potatoes, ideally using a mandoline for uniform thickness.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Grease a baking dish and start layering: first a layer of potatoes, then a spoonful of caramelized onions, then a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Pour the beef broth evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the bake sit for 10 minutes before serving to help it set. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or chives if desired.

How to Serve and Store French Onion Potato Bake

This bake serves about six people as a side dish or four as a hearty main. Serve it straight from the oven when the cheese is melted and golden for that ultimate comfort experience.

If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them covered in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it even more delicious.

What to Serve With French Onion Potato Bake?

Roast Chicken

The juicy, crispy-skinned simplicity of roast chicken pairs effortlessly with the savory richness of the potato bake.

Garlic Green Beans

Bright and slightly crunchy green beans balance out the creaminess of the dish.

A Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with a lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness and bring freshness.

Balsamic-Glazed Carrots

The sweet tang of balsamic complements the caramelized onions beautifully.

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

This adds a savory protein that mirrors the herbaceous notes in the bake.

Sourdough Bread

A crusty slice is perfect for scooping up the cheesy onion goodness.

Red Wine

A dry red like Pinot Noir or a soft Merlot makes a perfect companion.

Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?

If you love this French Onion Potato Bake, don’t miss these other cozy favorites:

Try the comforting simplicity of our Cajun Potato Soup on a chilly day.
For a heartier twist, our Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake brings bold flavors.
Don’t miss the savory delight of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a full meal idea.
These Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions are an easy everyday side.
Or try something unique like the Mexican Sopa de Conchas for a flavor twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Gruyère or Swiss? Did you add bacon or keep it vegetarian?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dish.

Conclusion

French Onion Potato Bake combines everything we crave in comfort food—creamy potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s a recipe worth repeating and one that’ll become a staple on your family table.