If you adore the rich, comforting flavors of French onion soup but are looking for a playful twist, this French Onion Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender baby potatoes coated in savory French onion soup mix, roasted to crispy golden perfection, and topped with ooey-gooey melted cheese that just pulls you in with every bite. This dish brings together simplicity and flavor in a way that feels both familiar and delightfully fresh, making it a fantastic side or even a star appetizer when you want to impress without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This French Onion Potatoes Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work wonders together. Each plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor, from the hearty potatoes to the aromatic French onion soup mix and the creamy, melted cheese topping that ties it all together.
- Baby potatoes, 2 pounds: Small and tender, they roast evenly and soak up all the delicious seasoning.
- French onion soup mix, 1 oz packet: The star seasoning that infuses every bite with that classic rich onion and herb flavor.
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: Helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Shredded cheese, 1 cup: Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella all melt perfectly and add a luscious, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note at the end.
How to Make French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key to getting those potatoes nicely browned on the outside while keeping them soft inside. Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier later on.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Place the halved baby potatoes into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the entire packet of French onion soup mix. Toss everything together until the potatoes are generously coated with the seasoning. This step ensures every bite bursts with that signature French onion soup flavor.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on your prepared baking dish. Roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, making sure to stir them halfway through for even cooking. You’re aiming for tender potatoes with edges that are beautifully golden and slightly crisp.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once roasted, sprinkle your choice of shredded cheese evenly over the hot potatoes. Pop them back in the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts, turns bubbly, and creates that irresistible golden crust on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by scattering freshly chopped parsley over the potatoes for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve these French Onion Potatoes hot, ideally straight from the oven when that cheesy aroma is at its peak.
How to Serve French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While the optional parsley adds a lovely touch of green and freshness, you can also experiment with finely chopped chives or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for an extra onion crunch. These garnishes elevate the dish visually and taste-wise, making every serving feel special.
Side Dishes
French Onion Potatoes pair wonderfully with simple proteins like grilled chicken or steak, balancing rich meatiness with their savory cheesy goodness. They also complement a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these potatoes in individual ramekins topped with a little extra cheese and a crisp baked top. Alternatively, mix in some crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking to deepen the flavor profile and impress your guests with an elevated version of this already fantastic classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These French Onion Potatoes keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They are perfect for enjoying as a quick reheat side dish or a savory snack.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked potatoes before adding the cheese topping for best results. Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating and adding cheese fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again—about 10 to 15 minutes. Add fresh cheese on top before reheating if you want that melty, bubbly finish all over again.
FAQs
Can I use regular onions instead of French onion soup mix?
While fresh onions add great flavor, the French onion soup mix is specially seasoned and contains a blend of spices and dehydrated onions designed to mimic the classic soup’s taste, making it the easiest way to get authentic flavor without extra prep.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Gruyère and Swiss cheeses bring a nutty, creamy melt that’s closest to traditional French onion soup toppings. Mozzarella works well too if you prefer a milder, stretchy cheese, but avoid overly sharp or crumbly cheeses.
Can I use larger potatoes?
Absolutely! Just quarter larger potatoes instead of halving to ensure they cook through evenly and absorb the seasoning properly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Most French onion soup mixes contain gluten, so check your brand’s label or opt for a gluten-free version to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan French onion soup mix and replace cheese with vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. Also, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute to keep it plant-based.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Potatoes Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that instantly brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a favorite you’ll want to share over and over again!
Print
French Onion Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Potatoes offer a delicious twist on classic roasted potatoes by incorporating the rich flavor of French onion soup mix and melty shredded cheese. This easy oven-baked side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, delivering tender, golden potatoes topped with gooey cheese and a fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved (or quartered if large)
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Season Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the halved (or quartered) baby potatoes with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 packet of the French onion soup mix. Toss thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Bake Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single, even layer on your prepared baking dish. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring or flipping the potatoes halfway through to promote even browning and tenderness.
- Add Cheese: After the initial roasting, evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly and golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and optionally sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a flavorful side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Notes
- You can use baby potatoes or larger potatoes quartered to ensure even cooking.
- Gruyère cheese adds the most authentic French onion flavor, but Swiss or mozzarella work well as alternatives.
- Make sure to toss potatoes halfway during roasting for even browning.
- For a gluten-free version, verify that the French onion soup mix contains no gluten.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice pop of color and freshness.
