Name: Creamy Gruyere and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded; 2 cups heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Scalloped potatoes are a beloved dish that adds comfort and warmth to any meal, and when you combine them with the creamy richness of Gruyere cheese and the sweetness of caramelized onions, you create a dish that’s truly irresistible. Creamy Gruyere and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes are a decadent take on the classic, elevating the humble potato with layers of flavor and a luxurious texture. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a side dish for any special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Decadent Flavor Combination

The richness of Gruyere cheese and the sweetness of caramelized onions make these scalloped potatoes a luxurious treat. The savory, creamy layers perfectly complement the tender potatoes for a well-balanced dish.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, this dish fits seamlessly into any menu. Its elegance makes it ideal for special occasions, yet it’s easy enough for a comforting family dinner.

3. Simple Yet Impressive

With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, these scalloped potatoes transform into an impressive and delicious dish that will wow your guests without requiring complex cooking techniques.

4. Crispy and Creamy Texture

The creamy interior, thanks to the heavy cream and Gruyere cheese, contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges of the potatoes, providing the perfect texture in every bite.

5. Can Be Made Ahead

You can prepare these potatoes ahead of time and bake them when needed, making them a great option for busy days or when you’re hosting a dinner and need to free up your time for other tasks.

Ingredients

Butter
Large onion, thinly sliced
Garlic, minced
Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Gruyere cheese, shredded
Heavy cream
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Cheese Options: If you don’t have Gruyere, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or fontina for a similar creamy melt.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the layers for an herbal boost of flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter, vegan cheese, and coconut or almond milk for a plant-based version of this recipe.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes between the layers for a subtle heat that will enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the potatoes don’t stick.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and caramelized, which will take about 15-20 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to soften and release its aroma. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Thinly slice the Yukon gold potatoes using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife. Make sure the slices are evenly cut to ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

In the greased baking dish, create a layer of half of the sliced potatoes. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper, then add half of the caramelized onions and half of the shredded Gruyere cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese.

Step 5: Add Heavy Cream

Pour the heavy cream evenly over the potato layers, ensuring that the cream seeps through all the layers. The cream will help create that rich, velvety texture as it cooks.

Step 6: Bake the Potatoes

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Slicing: Use a mandolin slicer for perfectly uniform potato slices. This ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and maintain a consistent texture.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed.
Check for Doneness: Test the potatoes by inserting a knife or fork into the layers. If it goes in smoothly, they are fully cooked.
Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the dish with foil while baking helps the potatoes cook evenly without drying out. Remove it in the final minutes for a crispy, golden top.
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds more depth of flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.

How to Serve

With Roasted Meat: These scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats such as beef tenderloin, roast chicken, or pork loin.
With Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a complete meal.
As a Standalone Dish: These creamy potatoes can also be served as a comforting side on their own, especially for a cozy meal.
With a Salad: Pair with a fresh, crisp salad like a mixed greens or Caesar salad to balance out the richness of the potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 2 months. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the potatoes back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes, you can also use russet or red potatoes. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or a combination of milk and chicken broth. However, the texture will be less rich.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes up to a day ahead. Just assemble the dish and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, follow the same instructions but allow extra time for baking.

4. How do I know when the scalloped potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can insert a knife into the potatoes to check for doneness.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

You can add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted garlic to the layers for additional flavor.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. The recipe doesn’t rely on breadcrumbs for texture, so it will still turn out creamy and delicious.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Gruyere can be replaced with Swiss, cheddar, or fontina cheese. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but all will melt beautifully.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover scalloped potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.

9. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze this dish before or after baking. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing.

10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Creamy Gruyere and Caramelized Onion Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and decadent dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. With layers of tender potatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and rich Gruyere cheese, this recipe brings together textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress every time.