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.
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