Making the French Onion Soup
Caramelize the Onions:
While the potatoes are baking, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onion, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar. The salt helps to draw out moisture from the onions, and the sugar aids in caramelization.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until they become deeply caramelized. This process takes about 30 minutes. Patience is key here; the slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in the onions.
Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Once the onions are caramelized, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper and 1 teaspoon of freshly minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add Broth and Thyme:
Pour in 14 ounces of beef stock and 1 teaspoon of freshly minced thyme. Stir to combine. Increase the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to reduce slightly, enhancing its richness.
Assembling the Stuffed Potatoes
Prepare the Potatoes for Stuffing:
Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven. Cut each potato down the center lengthwise. Gently press the ends together to open up the potato. Be careful as the potatoes will be very hot.
Add Butter:
Divide the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into 4 pieces. Place a piece of butter into the center of each open potato. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter, adding extra richness to the final dish.
Stuff the Potatoes:
Carefully ladle the French onion soup into each potato, dividing it evenly between the four potatoes. Pour slowly and allow the soup to soak into the potato flesh. You might need to go back and forth to ensure that as much of the liquid is absorbed as possible.
Add the Cheese:
Place a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top of each stuffed potato. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping.
Broil for Perfection:
Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and broil until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Serving
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. You can also omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegetarian cheese alternative.
Different Cheeses: If Gruyère or Swiss isn’t available, you can use other types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture.
Additional Toppings: Consider adding caramelized mushrooms or sautéed spinach for an extra layer of flavor. You can also top with crispy fried onions for added crunch.
Conclusion
French Onion Soup Stuffed Potatoes are a delightful combination of two classic comfort foods, offering a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy potato skin combined with the creamy, savory French onion soup and gooey cheese makes each bite a flavorful experience. Whether you’re serving this dish for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or as a show-stopping side at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the joy of a recipe that brings together the best of both worlds into one delicious dish.