Imagine a dish that combines the rich, caramelized sweetness of French onions with creamy, perfectly layered potatoes, all topped with a golden, bubbling Gruyère cheese crust. This Instant Pot French Onion Potato Bake is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or create a comforting weekend meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Wash potatoes thoroughly and use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice them uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch thick). Peel and thinly slice onions into half-moon shapes.
- Season potato slices with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh thyme. Toss gently to ensure even seasoning.
- Grease the Instant Pot inner pot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer ingredients strategically: Start with a thin layer of sliced onions, then alternate layers of potato slices and remaining onions. Pour beef broth evenly over the layers.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position. Select "Pressure Cook" mode and set timer for 15 minutes on high pressure.
- Once cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release of pressure. Carefully open lid and check potato tenderness with a fork.
- Sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the potato and onion layers.
- Optional broil step: Transfer to oven-safe dish and broil for 3-4 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and dish to set.
Tips
- Slice Uniformity is Key: Use a mandoline slicer if possible to ensure even, thin potato slices that cook consistently and look professionally prepared.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt, pepper, and thyme. These seasonings are crucial for building deep flavor in your potato bake.
- Cheese Selection Matters: While Gruyère is traditional and recommended, you can experiment with similar melting cheeses like Emmental or a sharp white cheddar.
- Prevent Sticking: Thoroughly grease your Instant Pot inner pot, or use a non-stick liner for easy serving and cleanup.
- Quick Release is Crucial: Perform a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking the potatoes and maintain their perfect texture.
- Broiling Optional but Recommended: The optional broiling step adds a beautiful golden crust and enhances the cheese's flavor and texture.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld and the layers set properly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 353kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
