French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of caramelized onions and melted cheese filling your kitchen. French Onion Stuffed Potatoes combine the classic flavors of French onion soup with the comforting, hearty appeal of baked potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or a satisfying meal on their own, these stuffed potatoes are sure to impress.

I first discovered this recipe during a cozy winter evening when I wanted the soul-warming taste of French onion soup but craved something a bit heartier. These potatoes quickly became a family favorite and a go-to for dinner parties and weeknight meals alike.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Stuffed Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these indulgent, flavor-packed stuffed potatoes. They're a delightful twist on two comfort food classics, and you'll love just how versatile and crowd-pleasing they are.

First off, these potatoes are packed with flavor. Sweet, caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese create a symphony of rich, delicious tastes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

They’re surprisingly easy to prepare. While they may look restaurant-worthy, these stuffed potatoes require just a few simple steps – bake, scoop, stuff, and bake again.

Perfect for meal prep or special occasions, you can prepare the filling in advance, making them a great choice for holiday gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.

Best of all, these potatoes are versatile. Serve them as a hearty vegetarian main dish or pair them with steak, chicken, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Either way, they’ll steal the show.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of French Onion Stuffed Potatoes lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe so irresistible:

Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are ideal for baking, thanks to their fluffy interior and sturdy skin that holds up beautifully when stuffed.

Onions: Sweet or yellow onions work best for caramelizing, as they develop a deep, rich sweetness during cooking.

Beef Broth: Adds depth and a traditional French onion soup flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute with vegetable broth without sacrificing much flavor.

Butter and Olive Oil: A mix of these fats helps the onions caramelize evenly, resulting in that perfect golden-brown hue.

Gruyère Cheese: This nutty, melty cheese is a hallmark of French onion soup, but feel free to use Swiss or mozzarella for a budget-friendly option.

Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy, aromatic note. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works just as well.

Special Equipment: A sturdy baking sheet and a sharp paring knife are all you need to prepare these potatoes. A melon baller can also make scooping the potato flesh easier.

How to Make French Onion Stuffed Potatoes

Creating these rich and savory stuffed potatoes is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof result:

1. Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub 4 large Russet potatoes and pierce them with a fork several times. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife. Let them cool slightly.
2. Caramelize the Onions: While the potatoes bake, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 large sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden and caramelized – about 25-30 minutes. Add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits.
3. Prepare the Filling: Slice the tops off the baked potatoes and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato around the edges to maintain their structure. In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped potato flesh with the caramelized onions, ¼ cup of beef broth, and ½ cup of shredded Gruyère cheese. Mix until creamy and well-combined.
4. Stuff and Bake: Spoon the onion-potato mixture back into the potato shells, mounding it slightly. Top with additional Gruyère cheese. Return the potatoes to the baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves before serving for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.

These potatoes are best enjoyed hot, with every bite oozing cheesy, onion-filled goodness!

Storage Options

French Onion Stuffed Potatoes store beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Freezing: These potatoes freeze well! Wrap each stuffed potato tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: To maintain their crispy exterior and creamy filling, avoid microwaving. Instead, reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese.
• Add Protein: Mix cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or crumbled sausage into the filling for an extra hearty dish.
• Cheese Swap: Try a different cheese like cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add chopped parsley, chives, or rosemary for an herby flavor boost.
• Mini Potatoes: Use smaller potatoes for bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or gatherings.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. No matter how you customize it, these French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are sure to be a hit.

With their rich flavor, simple preparation, and endless adaptability, French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these potatoes deliver big on taste and cozy vibes. Bon appétit!

Print