Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, then these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere are just the ticket! This recipe transforms a classic side dish into something truly special. The combination of creamy potatoes and sweet, golden-brown onions topped with melty Gruyere cheese is simply irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just want to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this dish will make everyone feel right at home.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. It allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through without the heaviness of traditional sauces. Plus, it’s perfect for holidays like Christmas or Easter when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy potatoes! This dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness that complements the Gruyere beautifully.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive feast, these scalloped potatoes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s gather what we need for our scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere!

For the 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)
• 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! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an added nutrition boost.
• Cheese swap: Try substituting Gruyere with cheddar or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for a twist on the classic taste.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your scalloped potatoes cook evenly and develop that lovely golden top.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

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

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes with another tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, salt, and white pepper. Toss gently until everything is well coated. It’s important to ensure even coverage so that every potato slice is flavorful!

Step 4: Layer Your Dish

Butter your gratin dish lightly and start by lining it with the caramelized onions in an even layer at the bottom. Next, arrange the cheese-coated potato slices in a lovely pattern over the onions. Pour your chosen stock over everything and sprinkle on the remaining cheese. This layering creates beautiful textures and flavors.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 50 minutes until fork-tender. The foil helps trap moisture during cooking so that your potatoes come out perfectly creamy.

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

Once baked through, remove the foil and broil uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until lightly browned on top. The broiling adds that final touch of crispness you’ll love! Don’t forget to sprinkle minced rosemary over everything before serving; it adds such a lovely aroma!

Did you love this recipe? Let us know how it turned out with a rating and review!

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 helpful tips up your sleeve!

• Use a Mandoline: Slicing your Yukon gold potatoes with a mandoline ensures uniform thickness. This helps the potatoes cook evenly, giving you that perfect tender texture in every bite.

• Caramelize Slowly: Take your time with the onions! Cooking them slowly allows their natural sugars to develop, creating that sweet, rich flavor that beautifully complements the creamy cheese.

• Layer Wisely: When layering your potatoes and onions, try to create an even distribution. This ensures that each serving is packed with flavors and textures, making every bite as delicious as the last.

• Let it Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers settle and makes serving easier without losing shape.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Gruyere adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like sharp cheddar or fontina for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust the amount according to taste!

How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Serving scalloped potatoes is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary dishes. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh pop of color and enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper on top just before serving brings out the richness of the cheese without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil provide a colorful addition to your plate while balancing the creamy scalloped potatoes.

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the potatoes and offer a refreshing contrast. Try mixing arugula or spinach with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For those looking for protein options, grilled chicken breast or flaky white fish like cod complements this dish beautifully without overshadowing its flavors.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere will shine on any table! Enjoy creating this comforting dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making your mealtime a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy the leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any uneaten scalloped potatoes into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Alternatively, you can portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the dish covered with foil in the oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Bake as described above or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use other cheeses besides Gruyere in scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely! While Gruyere adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different tastes.

How do I make scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it as directed!

What should I serve with scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere?

These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. They make an excellent side for any meal!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute Gruyere and Parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere! This comforting dish is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you!