Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food

JUMP TO RECIPE

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, indulgent flavor of scalloped potatoes. If you’re a fan of creamy textures, savory flavors, and a touch of sweetness, then Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes will become your new go-to recipe. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for a holiday feast, or simply craving a comforting side that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe combines the richness of heavy cream and half & half, the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, and the nutty, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Gruyère cheese. As it bakes, the layers of thinly sliced potatoes absorb all the creamy flavors, creating a luscious, golden dish that is sure to impress.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

In this article, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes, along with helpful tips, pro suggestions, and answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into making this irresistible recipe.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes

Rich and Creamy Texture:
One of the standout features of this recipe is the luxurious texture. The combination of heavy cream and half & half creates a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly coats the thinly sliced potatoes. As the potatoes bake, they become tender while absorbing all the creamy goodness, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Sweet and Savory Flavor:
The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness, balancing the richness of the cream. As you cook the onions slowly over low heat, they transform into a golden, sweet-savory filling that complements the other ingredients wonderfully. The Gruyère cheese, with its nutty, slightly sweet flavor, brings everything together with a satisfying depth.

Perfect for Any Occasion:
This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a Thanksgiving spread, or a dinner party with friends, Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes will be the star of the meal. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and a simple green salad. And if you’re looking for a showstopper, this dish will not disappoint.

Ingredients for Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes

The ingredient list for this dish is straightforward but packed with flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Unsalted butter	4 tablespoons	Divided into two portions
Sweet yellow onions	2, thinly sliced
Sugar	1 teaspoon	To caramelize the onions
Russet potatoes	4-5 large (about 4 lbs)	Peeled and thinly sliced (1/8 inch thick)
Heavy cream	2½ cups
Half & half	1½ cups
Garlic cloves	3, grated
Fresh thyme sprigs	2-3
Bay leaves	2
Nutmeg	Pinch
Gruyère cheese	6 oz, shredded
Kosher salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste

This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The Gruyère cheese is the key ingredient that gives this dish its signature richness, while the caramelized onions add a deep, sweet complexity that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

The caramelized onions are the heart of this dish, contributing a delightful sweetness that complements the richness of the potatoes and cheese. Here’s how to get them just right:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them in the butter.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown.
5. Once the onions have taken on a golden hue, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar. The sugar will help the onions caramelize, turning them a deep amber color.
6. Continue to cook until the onions are completely caramelized—this should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base

While the onions are caramelizing, you can start working on the creamy sauce that will envelop the potatoes.

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the heavy cream, half & half, grated garlic, fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and a pinch of nutmeg.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the mixture.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Let the potatoes simmer for about 15 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Be sure not to let them fully cook—they will finish cooking in the oven.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves before assembling the dish.

Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

While the potato mixture is resting, it’s time to get your baking dish ready.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 3-quart baking dish with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. This ensures that the potatoes won’t stick and that they’ll bake up golden and bubbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now comes the fun part—layering the potatoes, caramelized onions, and Gruyère cheese to create a mouthwatering masterpiece.

1. Using a slotted spoon, layer half of the potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
2. Top the potatoes with half of the caramelized onions and half of the shredded Gruyère cheese.
3. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese. As you layer, make sure the cheese is spread evenly over the potatoes for that perfect golden, bubbly top.
4. Pour the creamy mixture from the pot over the layers in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Scalloped Potatoes

Now it’s time to bake!

1. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the final 10 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dish is out of the oven, let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to slice. If you like, you can garnish with fresh thyme for an added burst of flavor and color.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes

1. Use the Right Potatoes:
Russet potatoes are perfect for scalloped potatoes because they have a high starch content that makes them absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Their texture softens perfectly as they bake, creating a tender bite.

2. Don’t Rush the Caramelization:
Caramelizing onions is a slow process, but it’s worth the wait. Be patient and cook the onions on low heat to bring out their natural sweetness. Rushing the process can lead to burnt onions instead of a rich, sweet flavor.

3. Adjust the Seasoning:
Always taste and adjust the seasoning along the way. The right amount of salt and pepper is crucial to balance out the creaminess and sweetness. If you like a little extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.

4. Make It Ahead of Time:
This dish can be prepared in advance! Assemble it the day before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The next day, just pop it in the oven for a bit longer, and you’ll have a delicious, stress-free side dish ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute Gruyère cheese?
If you can’t find Gruyère cheese, you can substitute with Swiss cheese, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will still yield a delicious result.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t require any flour for thickening. Just make sure all of your other ingredients, including the half & half and cheese, are gluten-free.

How long will leftover scalloped potatoes keep?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream to restore the creamy texture, and bake until hot.

Conclusion: Why This Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes Recipe is a Must-Try

When you’re craving something indulgent, comforting, and downright delicious, look no further than Creamy Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes. The balance of creamy, cheesy, and sweet flavors will leave your taste buds delighted, and the dish’s ease of preparation makes it a go-to for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ready to make your own batch of scalloped potato heaven? Don’t wait—start cooking today and impress your loved ones with this unforgettable comfort food!

Print