Imagine all the flavors of your favorite French onion soup wrapped up in a jaggedly golden, cheesy, irresistibly fragrant pan of roasted potatoes. That’s exactly what French Onion Potatoes deliver—a bubbly, savory, and totally comforting side dish that never fails to steal the spotlight. Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or just craving something extra cozy for a weeknight dinner, their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the deep flavors of onion, butter, and cheese will make these spuds unforgettable. This is proof positive that with a handful of simple ingredients and a quick prep, you’ll have a dish friends and family will request again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for French Onion Potatoes couldn’t be easier, yet each one is chosen for big flavor and crave-worthy texture. Potatoes become creamy on the inside and crisp on the edges, while the soup mix, butter, and cheese combine to create a punchy, classic taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds (2 pounds, halved or quartered): Choose waxy potatoes for the best texture—they roast up tender and take on all the flavors.
- French onion soup mix (1 packet, 1 ounce): The magic ingredient! It infuses everything with classic umami and herby onion flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): The richness and slight sweetness of butter pairs perfectly with savory onion notes.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the potatoes crisp up while keeping things heart-healthy.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle hint of garlic that blends right into the onions and cheese.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch sharpens the flavors and gives a subtle kick.
- Gruyère or Swiss cheese (1/2 cup shredded, optional): Melts beautifully, making for a gooey, slightly nutty topping.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): For a fresh, herbaceous pop of color right before serving.
How to Make French Onion Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a quick coat of nonstick spray or butter, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your French Onion Potatoes won’t stick, and cleanup will be a breeze when the cheesy bits get beautifully caramelized on the edges.
Step 2: Toss Potatoes with Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, add your halved or quartered potatoes, then pour over the melted butter and olive oil. Sprinkle in the French onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss everything until the potatoes are coated evenly—every piece should glisten with buttery onion flavor. This step is where all the savory magic begins!
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. It’s important not to crowd them, so each piece gets those golden, crisp edges. Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the house smells absolutely amazing.
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional for Gooey Goodness!)
If you’re going for extra decadence, sprinkle Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking. The cheese will bubble, melt, and just begin to brown—infusing every bite with classic French onion soup vibes. Don’t skip this if you love that cheesy finish!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your French Onion Potatoes are golden and irresistible, take them out of the oven and shower with freshly chopped parsley. The color and freshness bring everything to life, and now they’re ready for the table.
How to Serve French Onion Potatoes
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of vibrant chopped parsley does wonders for presentation and flavor. If you want to turn things up a notch, you can also add a few crispy fried onions, a small dusting of smoked paprika, or a toss of extra shredded cheese right before serving for even more French Onion Potatoes flair.
Side Dishes
French Onion Potatoes are truly stars of the side dish world and pair beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. They’re fantastic on a holiday table next to glazed ham, prime rib, or roasted turkey. For a vegetarian meal, serve them with a crisp green salad and sautéed green beans.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this cozy classic into a shareable appetizer by skewering potato chunks with tiny cocktail picks, or nestle them into mini ramekins for individual servings. You can even layer French Onion Potatoes in a casserole, topping each serving with extra cheese and herbs to add an elegant restaurant touch at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply transfer your cooled French Onion Potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to four days, making them perfect for meal prep or an easy reheat-and-eat side for busy nights.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, French Onion Potatoes can be frozen! Place completely cooled potatoes into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay tasty for up to three months, though keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer when reheated.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the potatoes in an even layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and slightly crispy again—about 10 to 15 minutes. Pop them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry, but for maximum flavor and texture, the oven method really shines.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for French Onion Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or Yukon Golds give the best creamy inside and crisp edge, red potatoes or even Russets will work in a pinch. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
Is there a dairy-free or vegan version?
Yes! Substitute melted vegan butter or extra olive oil for the butter and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Be sure to check your French onion soup mix is vegan, as some brands contain dairy derivatives.
What’s the secret to extra crispy potatoes?
For crispier French Onion Potatoes, make sure they’re spread out in a single layer, leaving space between each piece to allow the heat to circulate. You can also increase the oven temp to 425°F in the last 10 minutes of roasting for even more golden crunch.
Can I make French Onion Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the potatoes up to the point before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature first, then proceed as directed. Leftovers are also fantastic reheated the next day!
How can I add even more French onion flavor to this dish?
Try tucking in a generous scoop of caramelized onions with the potatoes before roasting, or stirring in diced shallots. These boosts will make your French Onion Potatoes ultra-savory and truly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a savory, memorable side dish that always wows, you simply have to give these French Onion Potatoes a try. They’re comfort food at its best: easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Don’t be surprised if they disappear before you’ve had seconds!
Print
French Onion Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
French Onion Potatoes are a delicious twist on classic roasted potatoes, infused with the flavors of French onion soup. These savory, golden brown potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes or Yukon Golds (halved or quartered)
French Onion Seasoning:
- 1 (1-ounce) packet French onion soup mix
Other Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Toss Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with melted butter, olive oil, French onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
- Add Cheese: If using cheese, sprinkle Gruyère or Swiss over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking and let it melt and slightly brown.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Great served with roasted meats or as a savory side dish for holidays.
- Add caramelized onions for even more French onion flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
