Name: Easy French Onion Potato Bake
Ingredients: 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: These provide the base of the dish. Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture.; 2 cans French onion soup: This forms the flavorful sauce. The rich, savory flavor of the soup is what makes the dish so delicious.; 1 cup heavy cream: This enhances the creaminess and richness of the bake, making it indulgent. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half.; 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss): Cheese is essential for that gooey texture. Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, while Swiss cheese works well as a substitute.; 1 cup crispy fried onions: These add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor to the top of the bake. Look for high-quality brands for the best taste.; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme: Thyme adds a fresh, herbaceous element that complements the richness of the potatoes and cheese.; Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for building flavor throughout the dish.

Description

Enjoy Easy French Onion Potato Bake—creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavors. A perfect side dish or comforting vegetarian main.

Ingredients

Scale

6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: These provide the base of the dish. Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture.
2 cans French onion soup: This forms the flavorful sauce. The rich, savory flavor of the soup is what makes the dish so delicious.
1 cup heavy cream: This enhances the creaminess and richness of the bake, making it indulgent. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half.
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss): Cheese is essential for that gooey texture. Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, while Swiss cheese works well as a substitute.
1 cup crispy fried onions: These add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor to the top of the bake. Look for high-quality brands for the best taste.
2 tablespoons fresh thyme: Thyme adds a fresh, herbaceous element that complements the richness of the potatoes and cheese.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for building flavor throughout the dish.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of the baked dish.
Layer the potatoes: Begin by placing half of the 6 medium potatoes (thinly sliced) into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Remember, slices should be about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the first layer of soup: Pour one can of French onion soup evenly over the layer of potatoes. Follow this with half of the 1 cup heavy cream, spreading it over the potatoes to ensure even coverage.
Continue layering: Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, layering them neatly on top. Pour the second can of French onion soup over this layer, followed by the rest of the heavy cream. Make sure the potatoes are well-coated.
Top with cheese and thyme: Sprinkle the top of the dish with 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss) and 2 tablespoons fresh thyme. This will create a beautiful crust as it bakes.
Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook through.
Finish baking: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle 1 cup crispy fried onions over the top of the bake. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.