Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my cozy kitchen the other day, a magnificent aroma of caramelized onions enveloped me, transporting me straight to the heart of a bustling French bistro. This experience inspired my latest creation: Baked French Onion Gnocchi—an innovative twist on a beloved classic that brings hearty comfort food to your table. With just nine ingredients, this dish captures the essence of traditional French onion soup, featuring pillowy gnocchi nestled in a rich, flavorful broth topped with bubbling cheese. Not only is it easy to whip up in under an hour, but it’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser, ideal for dinners that warm both the heart and soul. So, why settle for takeout when you can create this cozy masterpiece? Ready to discover how to make it? Why is this dish a must-try? Rich, Hearty Flavor: The blend of caramelized onions and savory beef broth brings a depth of flavor that comforts the soul. Quick Preparation: You can have this sumptuous meal on the table in just one hour, perfect for busy weeknights. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked French onion gnocchi will impress everyone! Versatile Ingredients: With just nine easily accessible ingredients, you can customize the recipe to fit dietary needs, like using vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. For a sweet breakfast, consider trying my delicious Baked Maple Donut recipe! Perfect for the Season: This dish is the ultimate comfort food for cozy evenings, offering warmth and satisfaction during chilly months. Indulge in this creative fusion of flavors today! Baked French Onion Gnocchi Ingredients For the Base Olive Oil – Provides essential fat for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor. Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness; can be replaced with more olive oil for a dairy-free version. Large Sweet Onion – Creates a deeply flavorful base; yellow onions add pungency while red onions bring extra sweetness. White Wine – Excellent for deglazing and adds acidity; use extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar as a non-alcoholic option. Fresh Minced Thyme – Infuses herbal notes; dried thyme is a suitable substitute, but reduce the amount by half. Beef Broth – Forms the hearty soup base; low-sodium versions help control saltiness, while vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative. For the Gnocchi Gnocchi – The star ingredient that gives the dish heartiness; ensure it’s store-bought or homemade for best results. Salt and Pepper – Essential for taste; adjust the amounts based on the broth’s saltiness. For the Topping Shredded Swiss or Gruyere Cheese – Adds a delightful cheesy richness; mozzarella or sharp cheddar can be fantastic substitutes. French Bread – Perfect for dipping; consider Italian bread or a baguette for variety. This baked French onion gnocchi is a truly satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked French Onion Gnocchi Step 1: Caramelize Onions In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 sliced large sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized, about 20 minutes. Watch for a rich, golden-brown hue, which indicates that the onions are ready for the next step. Step 2: Deglaze & Simmer Add ½ cup of white wine to the skillet, scraping the browned bits off the bottom to unlock the flavors. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh minced thyme and 4 cups of beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble lightly for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors, creating a delicious broth for your baked French onion gnocchi. Step 3: Cook Gnocchi Introduce 1 pound of gnocchi into the simmering broth, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Allow the gnocchi to cook for approximately 5-10 minutes until they float and are tender. This is key in achieving that perfect texture that complements the hearty soup base in your baked French onion gnocchi. Step 4: Bake Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the gnocchi has cooked, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Generously sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese on top for a rich, crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Step 5: Serve Remove the baked French onion gnocchi from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly. Serve hot alongside slices of toasted French bread, allowing everyone to enjoy the comforting combination of soft gnocchi and flavorful broth with crispy bread for dipping. How to Store and Freeze Baked French Onion Gnocchi Fridge: Store any leftover baked French onion gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop. Freezer: If freezing, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before sealing. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. This saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully! Expert Tips for Baked French Onion Gnocchi Onion Perfection: Ensure you caramelize the onions deeply for a rich flavor. This unlocks the sweet, savory essence that defines the dish. Storage Note: If prepared in advance and refrigerated, remember to extend baking time by a few minutes to ensure it’s heated thoroughly. Skillet Size: Use a large enough skillet to allow the gnocchi and broth to cook evenly without overcrowding. This ensures a perfect texture in every bite. Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different cheeses! A blend of Swiss and sharp cheddar can add layers of flavor to your baked French onion gnocchi. Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as it simmers; overcooking can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still firm gnocchi for the best bite! What to Serve with Baked French Onion Gnocchi Transform your cozy dinner into an unforgettable feast with these delightful pairings. Simple Green Salad: The crisp, refreshing crunch of greens beautifully balances the rich, cheesy gnocchi. Roasted Vegetables: Tender roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add a vibrant side that complements the dish’s hearty texture. Toss them with olive oil and herbs for enhanced flavor. Garlic Bread: Buttery, toasted slices infused with garlic provide the perfect dip for the gnocchi’s creamy sauce, enhancing every bite. Radish and Pickle Salad: The zesty acidity cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing contrast that brightens your meal. French Onion Soup: Keep the theme alive! Serve a small bowl alongside your gnocchi for a delightful double dose of comfort. Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, enhancing the dish’s savory notes while keeping the palate refreshed. Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, consider a warm chocolate fondue with fresh fruits and marshmallows to end the meal on a sweet note, leaving everyone satisfied! Baked French Onion Gnocchi Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize your baked French onion gnocchi with these delightful twists that will enhance flavor and cater to your preferences! Vegetarian Version: Swap beef broth for vegetable broth and omit any meat for a plant-based delight. This keeps the heartiness but makes it suitable for everyone. Cheese Blend: Combine shredded mozzarella and parmesan for a cheesy topping with a different flavor profile. This mix offers an irresistible creamy richness that takes the dish up a notch. Extra Veggies: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach before baking for added nutrients and texture. They bring a new dimension to this traditional comfort food. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi to accommodate dietary needs while retaining the dish’s comforting essence. It’s a simple swap that ensures everyone can enjoy this warm blend! Enhanced Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick. This delightful addition elevates the comfort food experience by balancing the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a fragrant twist. Each herb brings its unique flavor, creating a personalized touch to your dish. Flavorful Toppings: Consider topping with crispy fried onions for a crunchy finish. They add a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the gnocchi, making each bite even more enjoyable. Gnocchi Alternatives: Instead of traditional gnocchi, try using sweet potato gnocchi for a slightly sweet flavor and extra health benefits. This twist makes the dish even more comforting and nutritious. Each variation offers a chance to make the recipe your own while keeping the spirit of this satisfying dish alive. For another comforting creation, don’t forget to check out my Baked Maple Donut recipe that adds a sweet ending to your meal! Enjoy the kitchen journey! Make Ahead Options These Baked French Onion Gnocchi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising flavor! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the gnocchi and assemble the mixture in a greased baking dish, adding the cheese before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully without losing quality. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right onions for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for large sweet onions to caramelize, but you can use yellow onions for a more pronounced flavor or red onions for added sweetness. Look for firm onions without any dark spots or soft areas. How should I store leftover baked French onion gnocchi? You can store leftover baked French onion gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop for the best results. Can I freeze baked French onion gnocchi? Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Ensure it’s well-covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. What can I do if my gnocchi turns mushy while cooking? Very! If the gnocchi are overcooked, they may turn mushy. It’s essential to keep an eye on them while simmering; they’re ready when they float to the surface and are tender, about 5-10 minutes. For a quick fix, you can try adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to the simmering broth to help thicken it if it becomes too thin. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Of course! For a vegetarian version, simply swap beef broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, ensure to check the cheese labels for any allergens if you’re cooking for someone with dairy sensitivities. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the baked French onion gnocchi up to 2 days in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. This is a great time-saver and allows the flavors to marry beautifully! Baked French Onion Gnocchi: Comfort Food at Its Finest Baked French Onion Gnocchi combines robust flavors and comfort, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: FrenchCalories: 420 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be replaced with more olive oil for a dairy-free version.2 large Sweet Onions Yellow onions add pungency, red onions bring extra sweetness.½ cup White Wine Use extra beef broth or balsamic vinegar as a non-alcoholic option.1 tablespoon Fresh Minced Thyme Dried thyme is a suitable substitute, reduce amount by half.4 cups Beef Broth Low-sodium versions help control saltiness, vegetable broth for vegetarian.For the Gnocchi1 pound Gnocchi Ensure it's store-bought or homemade for best results.to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust based on the broth's saltiness.For the Topping1-2 cups Shredded Swiss or Gruyere Cheese Mozzarella or sharp cheddar can be substitutes.to taste French Bread Consider Italian bread or baguette for variety. Equipment Large skilletBaking dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked French Onion GnocchiIn a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 sliced large sweet onions and cook until deeply caramelized, about 20 minutes.Add ½ cup of white wine to the skillet, scraping the browned bits off the bottom. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh minced thyme and 4 cups of beef broth, bringing to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.Introduce 1 pound of gnocchi into the simmering broth, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5-10 minutes until they float and are tender.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve hot alongside slices of toasted French bread. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure you caramelize the onions deeply for rich flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If freezing, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
