French Onion Baked Potatoes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
French Onion Baked Potatoes offer a delightful and comforting combination of the hearty flavors of baked potatoes and the savory richness of French onion soup. This dish is perfect for a cozy evening, whether as a main course or a side dish. The creamy texture of the sour cream, the warmth of the French onions, and the crispness of the potatoes create a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (approximately 12 ounces each), scrubbed and patted dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup salted butter, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup Frenched onions, warmed
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a baking rack in the center of the oven, as this will allow the heat to circulate around the potatoes evenly, ensuring a perfectly crisp and tender result.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel or cloth. Using a fork, poke several holes into each potato, which will allow steam to escape while they bake.
3. Season the Potatoes
Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle them with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to cover all sides. The salt will help create a crispy skin as the potatoes bake.
4. Bake the Potatoes
Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork or knife easily slides into the center, and the skin is golden and crisp.
5. Prepare the French Onion Topping
While the potatoes are baking, warm the Frenched onions in a small saucepan over medium heat. This will ensure they are hot and ready to top your potatoes once they are finished baking.
6. Prepare the Potato Filling
Once the potatoes are baked and tender, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before carefully slicing each potato open lengthwise. Gently fluff the insides with a fork, creating space for the creamy filling.
Add 1 tablespoon of softened butter into the center of each potato. Use a spoon or fork to mix the butter into the potato flesh, creating a creamy texture. Add a generous dollop of sour cream to each potato and continue mixing until smooth.
7. Assemble the French Onion Baked Potatoes
Top each stuffed potato with the warm Frenched onions. You can either spoon them generously over the potatoes or pile them high for a more decadent presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Season the potatoes with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious fusion of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors.
Tips for Perfect French Onion Baked Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for baking because of their starchy, fluffy interior and crisp skin. Other varieties like Yukon Gold can also work, but the texture may be slightly different.
- Use Fresh Frenched Onions: While store-bought Frenched onions are convenient, you can also make your own by sautéing onions in butter until they are soft and caramelized for an even richer flavor.
- Make It a Meal: For a more filling main course, consider adding shredded cheese (like Gruyère or cheddar) to the potato filling before adding the French onions. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can elevate the flavor further.
Conclusion
These French Onion Baked Potatoes are an ideal comfort food that will impress at any gathering or family dinner. The crispy skin, creamy interior, and rich, savory onion topping create a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you serve them as a side dish or as a main course, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.