If you adore the comforting flavors of French onion soup but want a fun twist that’s perfect for any meal, the French Onion Potatoes Recipe is your new go-to dish. This recipe takes baby potatoes and blankets them in caramelized onions, rich butter, and that classic French onion soup mix seasoning, delivering a golden, tender, and deeply savory experience that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for holiday gatherings, making these potatoes an irresistible companion on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Each component plays a vital role, from the creaminess and crispness of the baby potatoes to the sweet depth of the caramelized onions and the savory seasoning that ties it all together.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (halved): These small potatoes roast beautifully, offering a perfect balance of creamy interior and slightly crisp edges.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a lovely golden roast while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced): Caramelizing these slowly brings out their natural sweetness and deep flavor complexity.
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix: The secret seasoning blend that infuses the dish with that unmistakable French onion taste.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps with the buttery texture that coats every bite of potato and onion.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering the main flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right hint of spice and balance.
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional): Use according to taste, especially considering the saltiness of the soup mix.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens up the dish with fresh color and a light herbal note.
How to Make French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and warm, add the thinly sliced yellow onion. Stir occasionally as they cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the onions are soft, golden, and sweet, creating that signature caramelized flavor that is essential for the French Onion Potatoes Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture
While your onions are working their magic, place the halved baby potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the French onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt if you choose. Then fold in the warm caramelized onions, tossing everything gently until each potato piece is beautifully coated with seasoning and golden onion goodness.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Transfer this irresistible mixture into a well-greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a spacious sheet pan. Spread it out evenly, then pop it into your preheated oven at 400°F. Roast for about 35 to 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. Look for golden, tender potatoes with edges that are perfectly crisped.
How to Serve French Onion Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes for a burst of color and fresh flavor contrast. For an indulgent touch, try adding shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese during the last five minutes of roasting so it melts beautifully over the potatoes and onions.
Side Dishes
French Onion Potatoes Recipe pairs magnificently with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even holiday ham. The rich, savory flavor profile complements hearty proteins perfectly, making it a versatile side whether you’re planning a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve these potatoes in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and parsley. You can also turn them into a loaded baked potato base by adding sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or caramelized mushrooms for extra layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftover French Onion Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep nicely for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the same comforting flavors without any fuss the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save these potatoes for longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. To maintain the texture, it’s best to cool them completely before freezing.
Reheating
To bring leftover French Onion Potatoes back to life, warm them in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisp. Microwaving works too for convenience but might soften the crispy edges.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes work wonderfully, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great alternatives. Just adjust the roasting time slightly if your pieces are larger.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
The classic version includes butter, which is dairy, but you can substitute with a non-dairy butter or additional olive oil to make it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
What if I don’t have French onion soup mix?
You can create a quick homemade version using onion powder, beef or vegetable bouillon, garlic powder, and some herbs. However, the soup mix delivers a unique, convenient flavor that’s tough to replicate perfectly.
Can I add cheese to the French Onion Potatoes Recipe?
Definitely! Adding shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese in the last few minutes of baking adds richness and a wonderful melt that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and savory with just a touch of black pepper. It’s not spicy, making it suitable for all palates, including kids and those sensitive to strong heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this French Onion Potatoes Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser. It combines familiar flavors with comforting textures and brings warmth to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how those simple ingredients turn into a standout side dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
French Onion Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Potatoes are a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender roasted baby potatoes coated in caramelized onions and classic French onion soup mix. This comforting recipe combines the sweetness of slow-cooked onions with savory spices, making it a perfect accompaniment for grilled meats, holiday roasts, or as a hearty vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the potatoes.
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt together the butter and olive oil. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become soft and turn a golden brown color, developing a rich caramelized flavor.
- Prepare Potatoes: While the onions are cooking, place the halved baby potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the French onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and if desired, a pinch of salt. Stir to combine all the dry seasonings with the potatoes.
- Toss Potatoes with Onions: Once the onions are caramelized, add them to the bowl with the potatoes and seasoning mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the potatoes are well coated with the flavorful onion mixture.
- Roast Potatoes: Transfer the coated potatoes and onions into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a large sheet pan. Spread them out evenly. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 35–40 minutes, stirring once halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish the roasted potato dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- For extra richness and a creamy finish, sprinkle shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- You can substitute baby potatoes with Yukon gold or red potatoes if preferred.
- This dish pairs particularly well with grilled meats, roast chicken, or festive holiday dinners.
