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Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere Recipe

Scalloped Potatoes with Caramelized Onions and Gruyere is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that elevates a classic side to new heights. Sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyere cheese perfectly complement the velvety potatoes, making it the ultimate comfort food for special occasions and everyday dinners alike.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes:

  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter for greasing

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cream Sauce:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layers:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  • Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
  • Add Onions: Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until softened.
  • Add Sugar and Seasoning: Sprinkle sugar, salt, and pepper over the onions. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for another 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce

  • Heat Cream and Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until warmed but not boiling. Stir occasionally to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare and Layer the Potatoes

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tbsp of butter.
  • Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spread a layer of caramelized onions over the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of Gruyere cheese.
  • Repeat Layers: Continue layering potatoes, onions, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.

Step 4: Add Cream Sauce and Bake

  • Pour Sauce: Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. Press down gently to ensure the sauce spreads evenly.
  • Add Final Layer of Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top.
  • Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  • Let Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices that cook evenly.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cream sauce.
  • Let the dish rest after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.