French Onion Baked Potatoes 🧅🥔✨

“A delicious twist on classic baked potatoes, loaded with caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and rich French onion flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a comforting main course!”

Ingredients

• 4 large baking potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or Swiss cheese)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes. Poke them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and the insides are tender.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. While the potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized.
3. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper, then deglaze the pan with beef broth. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes

1. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Slice each potato lengthwise down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently fluff the insides with a fork.
3. Divide the caramelized onion mixture evenly among the potatoes, spooning it into the openings.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

1. Top each potato with a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese.
2. Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve warm as a side dish or pair with a fresh salad for a hearty main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: Combines the savory goodness of French onion soup with the comfort of baked potatoes.
• Customizable: Swap the cheese or add crispy bacon for extra indulgence.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or an impressive side for gatherings.

Pro Tips

1. Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
2. Extra Crispy Skin: Rub the potatoes with olive oil and salt for crispy, flavorful skins.
3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

These French Onion Baked Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. A perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite! 🧅🥔✨