Introduction

When you think of comfort food, few dishes capture that warm, cozy feeling like a baked potato. Now imagine that same baked potato elevated with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. That’s exactly what French Onion Stuffed Potatoes deliver—a combination of rustic simplicity and restaurant-worthy indulgence.

This dish transforms the humble potato into something extraordinary. Tender baked russet potatoes are split open and generously filled with golden caramelized onions simmered in broth, then crowned with a blanket of bubbling Gruyère cheese. Every bite feels like the perfect marriage of creamy potato and savory soup, offering deep flavor and cheesy satisfaction in one forkful.

It’s the ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet sophisticated, or for special occasions when you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served as a main course or a memorable side dish, these stuffed potatoes check all the boxes for an easy dinner recipe the whole family will love.

What You Need

For the Potatoes

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

How to Make French Onion Stuffed Potatoes

Step 1 – Bake the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes, pat dry, and pierce with a fork. Rub with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake on a sheet for 50–60 minutes until tender.

Step 2 – Caramelize the Onions
While potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized. Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking 2 more minutes. Pour in broth and simmer until reduced by half.

Step 3 – Stuff and Bake Again
Cut a slit in each baked potato, fluff insides with a fork, and spoon in onion mixture. Top with shredded Gruyère. Return to oven for 10 minutes, until cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 4 – Serve
Let cool slightly, garnish with thyme or parsley, and enjoy hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy but impressive – A family-friendly comfort food that looks gourmet.
Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
Flexible – Works as a side dish or a full meal with a salad or protein.
Crowd-pleasing – Melty cheese, savory onions, and creamy potatoes satisfy all ages.

Tips

For extra crisp potato skins, bake directly on the oven rack.
Use a cast-iron skillet for evenly caramelized onions.
Let onions cook low and slow for the best flavor.

Variations

Cheese Swap – Try Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone instead of Gruyère.
Vegetarian – Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Loaded Style – Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for more depth.

Substitutions

Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a creamier texture.
Fresh rosemary can replace thyme for a different herbal note.
For lighter cheese, try part-skim mozzarella.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prep the potatoes and filling, then stuff and refrigerate. Bake with cheese before serving.
Do I need to peel the potatoes? No, the skin helps hold everything together.
Can I use sweet onions instead of yellow? Absolutely—they caramelize beautifully.
What if I don’t have Gruyère cheese? Swiss or provolone works just as well.
Can I make these dairy-free? Use vegan cheese alternatives.
Are these freezer-friendly? Yes, wrap in foil and freeze up to 2 months.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Bake potatoes first, then finish in the slow cooker on warm.
What protein pairs best? Roast chicken, steak, or even grilled sausage.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, just increase ingredient amounts proportionally.
How do I reheat leftovers? Bake at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Health Benefits

Potatoes provide fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Onions are rich in antioxidants and may support heart health.
Gruyère cheese offers calcium and protein, in moderation.

How to Serve

Serve as a main dish with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meat. They also make a memorable side dish for steak night or holiday meals.

Make Ahead & Storage

Make Ahead: Prepare onions and bake potatoes earlier in the day. Assemble just before the final bake.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F or microwave gently, adding extra cheese if desired.

Conclusion

French Onion Stuffed Potatoes are the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with comfort food all over again. With their golden, cheesy tops and rich, savory filling, they’re easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. Next time you’re craving something hearty, give this recipe a try—you’ll have an instant family favorite.