If you're a fan of the rich and creamy taste of scalloped or au gratin potatoes, then you're in for a treat. The French onion potatoes are a must - try addition to your recipe collection. This dish combines the best of both worlds, taking the classic elements of scalloped potatoes and giving them a flavorful twist.

Let's start with the base. The cream sauce in this recipe is the heart and soul of the dish. It's thick, velvety, and adds a luxurious mouthfeel. The process of making the cream sauce is relatively simple. First, melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, sprinkle in some flour. This creates a roux, which is the foundation for the sauce. Whisk the flour and butter together until it forms a smooth paste. Then, slowly pour in some milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. As the milk heats up, it will start to thicken the roux, creating a beautiful, creamy sauce. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor.

Shredded cheese is another key component. Whether you choose cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both, the cheese adds a gooey, cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the potatoes. When the cream sauce is ready, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and cheesy sauce that will coat the potatoes beautifully.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the caramelized onions. Caramelizing onions is an art form that requires patience but is well worth the effort. Start by slicing the onions thinly. Heat some oil or butter in a large skillet over medium - low heat. Add the onions and stir them gently to coat them with the oil. Let the onions cook slowly, stirring occasionally. As they cook, they will start to release their natural sugars and turn a beautiful golden - brown color. This process can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes, but the sweet, savory flavor of the caramelized onions is worth the wait. The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the dish that balances out the richness of the cream sauce and cheese.

Crispy bacon is the final touch that takes this dish to the next level. Cook the bacon in a skillet until it's crispy. You can either crumble the bacon on top of the finished dish or mix it into the potato mixture for an extra crunch. The saltiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the creaminess of the potatoes.

To assemble the French onion potatoes, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with some butter or cooking spray. Layer the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Pour some of the cream sauce over the potatoes, followed by a layer of caramelized onions. Add another layer of potatoes and repeat the process until all the potatoes, sauce, and onions are used up. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the final layer of potatoes and onions. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 - 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the finished dish just before serving.

These French onion potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect side dish for a variety of main courses, such as roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops. They're also great for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a large crowd.

In conclusion, if you love the rich flavor of scalloped or au gratin potatoes, the French onion potatoes are a must - make recipe. With their combination of cream sauce, shredded cheese, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon, they're a delicious and decadent side dish that will impress your family and friends. So, head to the kitchen and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!