If you adore the rich flavors of French onion soup but crave something a little heartier and more comforting, this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine pillowy gnocchi soaked in a savory beef broth infused with deeply caramelized sweet onions and fragrant thyme, all topped with a golden crust of melted Swiss or Gruyère cheese. It’s like all your favorite cozy winter flavors rolled into one irresistible dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family any time you want a little extra comfort on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients lays the foundation for a dish packed with incredible flavor and satisfying textures. Each item plays a vital role, from the sweetness of the caramelized onions to the gooey, bubbly cheese topping that makes every bite a delight.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity base for caramelizing the onions evenly without burning.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances richness and helps the onions develop their signature caramel color and flavor.
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced: The star of the show providing natural sweetness and body to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme: Introduces an earthy aroma that perfectly complements the onions and broth.
- 2 cups beef broth: The savory backbone that steeps the gnocchi in deep, meaty flavor.
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade): Soft, tender dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully to create a luscious, golden crust on top.
- 8-10 slices French bread, toasted: Perfect for dipping into the rich, cheesy broth and adding a satisfying crunch.
How to Make Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start your cooking adventure by setting the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the cheese topping to melt perfectly while creating a nicely browned, bubbly crust during baking.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, gently melt the olive oil and butter together over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced sweet onions and cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until they turn golden brown and develop a rich sweetness, about 20 minutes. This caramelization releases the natural sugars and builds the foundational flavor for your dish.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, sprinkle in the fresh minced thyme. Pour in the beef broth, letting everything come to a gentle simmer. This combination marries the savory and herbal notes that perfectly complement the gnocchi.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Time to add the gnocchi. Stir them into the simmering mixture and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, until they become tender and the broth thickens slightly, coating each dumpling with that lovely onion-infused richness. Season carefully with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors into harmonious balance.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your gnocchi and onion-broth mixture into a greased baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese over the top. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and turns a mouthwatering golden brown. This final step elevates the dish with a cheesy, crunchy topping that’s downright irresistible.
How to Serve Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or extra thyme over the top to add a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes. If you enjoy a little heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes also works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. The contrast in textures and colors makes your meal feel balanced and indulgent at the same time.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the gnocchi directly from individual oven-safe ramekins. This adds a personal touch and makes the gooey cheese topping all the more inviting. For entertaining, arrange toasted French bread slices on a rustic wooden board alongside your dish for dipping in style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Baked French Onion Gnocchi in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead comfort meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe container and covering tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese topping bubbles again, about 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power to warm without drying out the gnocchi.
FAQs
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely! While beef broth gives that classic deep flavor, chicken broth can be used for a lighter taste. Just be sure to adjust seasonings to maintain a rich flavor profile.
Is it better to use store-bought or homemade gnocchi?
Either works wonderfully in this recipe. Homemade gnocchi will feel extra special and fresh, but quality store-bought gnocchi delivers convenience without sacrificing taste.
What cheese is best for topping this dish?
Swiss and Gruyère are traditional choices because they melt beautifully and have a nutty, buttery flavor that complements the onions perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the beef broth with a rich vegetable broth and consider adding umami boosters like soy sauce or mushrooms to deepen the flavor.
How do I avoid soggy gnocchi after baking?
Make sure to cook the gnocchi just until tender and let the broth thicken before baking. Also, using a cheese topping that browns well creates a nice protective crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe: it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a comforting, impressive dish that’s perfect any time you want to cozy up with incredible flavor. If you love dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate, do yourself a favor and make this recipe soon—you won’t regret it!
Print
Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
A comforting and savory baked French Onion Gnocchi dish featuring caramelized sweet onions, tender gnocchi simmered in flavorful beef broth, topped with melted Gruyère cheese and served alongside crispy toasted French bread slices.
Ingredients
For the Onion and Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gnocchi and Topping
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 8–10 slices French bread, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the gnocchi dish later.
- Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes. This step builds rich flavor.
- Add flavor: Stir in the fresh minced thyme into the caramelized onions, then pour in the beef broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
- Cook the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the skillet with the simmering broth and onions. Cook while stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and the broth has reduced and thickened slightly, about 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the gnocchi and broth mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and serve it hot with toasted French bread slices for dipping. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, use homemade beef broth if available.
- You can substitute Gruyère with Swiss cheese or a mild cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- Ensure onions are fully caramelized for the best savory sweetness.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade; fresh gnocchi cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- To save time, caramelize the onions in advance and store them refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
