Lightened French Onion Bites

Featured in: Gather & Share

These bite-sized potato rounds feature Yukon Gold potatoes roasted to golden perfection, topped with sweet caramelized onions and a light, creamy cheese mixture. Enhanced with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, the dish balances crispy textures and rich flavors. Garnished with fresh chives, these bites offer a vegetarian, gluten-free option ideal for appetizers or party snacks. The preparation combines roasting and gentle sautéing techniques for an easy yet impressive treat.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:37:00 GMT
Golden, roasted potato bites topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy, cheesy Lightened French Onion Potato Bites. Pin
Golden, roasted potato bites topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy, cheesy Lightened French Onion Potato Bites. | kitchenprairie.com

Crispy, bite-sized potato rounds topped with caramelized onions and a lightened creamy cheese blend. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack with all the flavor of classic French onion soup in a healthier, finger-food form.

I love serving these at gatherings because they are easy to eat and always a hit.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes sliced into 1/2-inch rounds, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Caramelized Onions: 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • Cheese Mixture: 1/2 cup light cream cheese softened, 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
  • Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Toss potato rounds with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Step 3:
While potatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat.
Step 4:
In a bowl, combine light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Step 5:
Once potatoes are roasted, top each round with a small dollop of the cheese mixture. Add a spoonful of caramelized onions on top.
Step 6:
Return potatoes to oven for 5 minutes, just until cheese is warmed through.
Step 7:
Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped chives, and serve warm.
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This recipe always brings smiles at family gatherings especially during holidays.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bites warm alongside a crisp white wine or light beer for the perfect appetizer experience.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.

Variations

For a different flavor, try sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold or add a pinch of dried thyme to the onions.

Imagine warm, cheesy Lightened French Onion Potato Bites; the crispy potato base supports rich, onion flavor. Pin
Imagine warm, cheesy Lightened French Onion Potato Bites; the crispy potato base supports rich, onion flavor. | kitchenprairie.com

These bites offer a delightful combination of crispy texture and rich flavor in every bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

What potatoes work best for these bites?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their natural sweetness and firm texture when roasted, but sweet potatoes can also be used for a twist.

How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?

Cook sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat with a bit of salt and sugar, stirring frequently until deep golden brown and sweet.

Can I prepare the potato rounds ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the potatoes in advance and add the cheese and onions just before serving, then warm them briefly in the oven.

Is there a way to make this dish vegan?

Substitute the dairy-based cheese blend with vegan cream cheese and yogurt alternatives to keep it plant-based.

What garnishes complement these potato bites?

Fresh chopped chives add a mild oniony brightness, but thyme or parsley can also enhance flavors subtly.

Lightened French Onion Bites

Crispy Yukon Gold rounds with caramelized onions and creamy cheese blend, perfect as a light, flavorful snack.

Prep duration
20 min
Cook duration
40 min
Complete duration
60 min


Skill level Easy

Heritage French-inspired

Output 24 Portions

Diet specifications Vegetarian, Without gluten

Components

Potatoes

01 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Caramelized Onions

01 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 1/2 teaspoon sugar
05 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Cheese Mixture

01 1/2 cup light cream cheese, softened
02 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
03 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
04 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
05 Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare oven and baking sheet: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Phase 02

Roast potatoes: Toss potato rounds with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

Phase 03

Caramelize onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat.

Phase 04

Prepare cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Phase 05

Assemble bites: Top each roasted potato round with a dollop of the cheese mixture, then spoon caramelized onions on top.

Phase 06

Warm assembled bites: Return potato bites to the oven for 5 minutes to warm the cheese mixture.

Phase 07

Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped chives, and serve warm.

Necessary tools

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella). May be gluten-free if certified ingredients are used.

Nutrient content (each portion)

This data is offered as a general guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 45
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Protein: 2 g