There’s something magical about the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup—that caramelized onion goodness paired with gooey, melted cheese. Now imagine all of that irresistible flavor tucked into a warm, fluffy baked potato. That’s exactly what you get with French Onion Stuffed Potatoes: a hearty, comforting dish that combines two timeless favorites into one irresistible recipe. Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a decadent side dish, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
4 large russet potatoes – The ideal base; their sturdy skins hold up to stuffing while their fluffy interiors soak in flavor beautifully.
2 tablespoons butter – Essential for caramelizing onions, adding richness and depth.
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced – The star of the show; slow-cooked to sweet, golden perfection.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and keeps onions tender.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme) – Adds a subtle herbal note that balances the sweetness of caramelized onions.
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar – Enhances the onions’ natural sweetness and adds a touch of tang.
1 cup beef broth – Deepens the savory, soup-like flavor inside the potato.
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully, giving that classic French onion flavor and gooey texture.
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – Provides stretchiness and extra cheesiness.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Brings out the flavors of every component.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a fresh, colorful garnish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub and dry the potatoes, then prick them with a fork a few times.
Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 45–55 minutes, until tender.
2. Caramelize the Onions
While the potatoes bake, melt butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized.
Stir in thyme, balsamic vinegar, and beef broth. Let simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Scoop and Stuff
When the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a sturdy shell.
Mash the potato flesh in a bowl, then mix in half of the caramelized onions and a handful of cheese.
4. Assemble
Spoon the potato mixture back into the shells.
Top each with remaining caramelized onions, a generous sprinkle of Gruyère, and mozzarella.
5. Bake Again
Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
6. Serve
Garnish with parsley and serve hot, straight from the oven.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort food meets elegance – It’s hearty enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive for entertaining.
Layered flavors – Sweet caramelized onions, creamy mashed potato, savory broth, and gooey cheese make every bite indulgent.
Customizable – Add crispy bacon, swap in sweet onions, or use vegetarian broth to suit your taste.
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Pro Tips for Perfect French Onion Stuffed Potatoes
Low and slow onions – Don’t rush caramelizing; true flavor develops with patience.
Use the right potatoes – Russets or Yukon Golds give the best texture and structure.
Broil for extra crispiness – For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Make-ahead friendly – Caramelize the onions in advance and simply assemble and bake when ready to serve.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair these French Onion Stuffed Potatoes with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
Roast chicken, steak, or pork chops for a complete meal.
A glass of red wine or dry white wine to complement the rich flavors.
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Final Thoughts
These French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are everything you love about French onion soup—sweet, savory onions and rich melted cheese—delivered in a hearty potato shell. They’re easy enough for a comforting family dinner yet elegant enough to impr
ess guests. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated.
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