Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

These Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting side for your holiday meals, this recipe enhances the natural flavors of potatoes with sweet caramelized onions and rich Gruyere cheese. Not only is it satisfying, but it also provides a lighter alternative by skipping the traditional béchamel sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese creates a deliciously rich taste that elevates any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.
• Comforting and Satisfying: This dish is perfect for warming you up on cold evenings while still being light on the heavy sauces.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, making meal prep easier.

Tools and Preparation

To make these scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife or mandoline
• Thick-bottomed sauté pan
• Large bowl
• Gratin dish or casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline: Ensures perfectly sliced potatoes that cook evenly for a great texture.
• Thick-bottomed sauté pan: Distributes heat evenly, allowing onions to caramelize beautifully without burning.
• Gratin dish: Designed for even baking, it helps achieve a crispy top layer while keeping the inside tender.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes and Onions

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cups thinly sliced onions (sliced crosswise)
• 6 medium-small Yukon gold potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled, thinly sliced (1/8-inch thick)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided (1/2 cup, 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Stock

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 1 teaspoon butter to butter the gratin or casserole dish
• 1/3 cup stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable stock)
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh rosemary

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a thick-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat.
* Add the sliced onions.
* Stir to coat them with oil.
* Cook until golden brown for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Thinly sliced potatoes.
2. Remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
3. 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese.
4. Grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Salt and white pepper.

Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Lightly butter your gratin dish or casserole dish with the teaspoon of butter.
* Layer caramelized onions at the bottom.
* Arrange cheese-coated potatoes on top in an even pattern.
* Pour stock over the layered potatoes.
* Sprinkle with remaining Gruyere cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 50 minutes or until fork-tender.

Step 6: Broil for Finish

Remove aluminum foil and broil for an additional 5 minutes until lightly browned.
Sprinkle with minced rosemary before serving.

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How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese make for a delightful side dish that complements a variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes, adding a protein-rich element to your meal.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of roasted vegetables brings a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the softness of the potatoes.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Serve these scalloped potatoes during holiday gatherings for an indulgent side that everyone will love, making it a festive staple.

Pairing with Beef Roast

• The richness of a beef roast complements the flavors in the scalloped potatoes, creating a hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A light and refreshing salad adds contrast to the creamy potatoes, making it an excellent choice for warmer days or lighter meals.

How to Perfect Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

To ensure your scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture holds up well during baking, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish.
• Slice Evenly: Thin slices (about 1/8-inch) ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
• Don’t Rush Caramelizing Onions: Take your time when caramelizing. Slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness, enriching the flavor profile.
• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Alternate layers of potatoes and cheese for better distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making serving easier and enhancing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

Scalloped potatoes pair well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Asparagus
   Bright green asparagus adds color and nutrients while providing a crisp contrast to the creamy potatoes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These savory sprouts offer a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that complements the richness of scalloped potatoes.
3. Garlic Bread
   Warm garlic bread provides a delightful crunch and is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness from your plate.
4. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce balances the rich flavors of scalloped potatoes, adding freshness to your meal.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet glazed carrots introduce a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with savory scalloped potatoes.
6. Baked Broccoli
   This nutritious option can be seasoned simply with olive oil and salt for added flavor without overwhelming the main dish.
7. Grilled Zucchini
   Lightly grilled zucchini provides a healthy side that offers mild flavors while pairing well with rich dishes like scalloped potatoes.
8. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser and adds vibrant color as well as sweetness to round out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not slicing potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline for uniform thickness.
• Skipping the oil coating: Failing to coat the potatoes in olive oil can cause them to darken. Ensure all slices are well-coated to maintain their color.
• Overcooking onions: Cooking onions too long may lead to burnt flavors. Aim for a golden brown without reaching a charred state.
• Ignoring cheese layering: Not dividing the cheese properly can result in uneven melting. Layer cheese throughout rather than just on top.
• Not using enough stock: Insufficient stock can lead to dry potatoes. Make sure to pour enough over the layers for moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Temperature: Keep your refrigerator below 40°F (4°C).
• • Separation: Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Container: Use freezer-safe, airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• • Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring between sessions until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere, we’ve got answers!

What makes scalloped potatoes different from gratin?

Scalloped potatoes typically do not use béchamel sauce, while gratin often includes this creamy base. Our recipe gives a lighter twist by skipping the sauce.

Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to baking and then refrigerate it. Just add extra time for baking if it’s chilled.

How do I ensure my scalloped potatoes don’t turn gray?

Coating the potato slices in olive oil helps prevent oxidation. Make sure they are well coated before layering.

What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?

If Gruyere is unavailable, try using Swiss cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for similar textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

These scalloped potatoes with caramelized onions and Gruyere offer a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, they can be customized with herbs or different cheeses based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors!