French Onion Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this French Onion Gnocchi. It’s a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, but with pillowy soft gnocchi that soak up all that rich, savory goodness. There’s something about the combination of caramelized onions and melted cheese that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. This recipe is especially great for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this dish truly special is its blend of flavors and textures. The gnocchi are smooth and tender, while the sauce is deeply flavorful and comforting. And let’s not forget about that cheesy topping—it’s just divine! You might find yourself making this dish again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together with simple steps, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
• Flavorful: The caramelized onions bring out a sweet richness that pairs beautifully with the gnocchi.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal; it’s sure to become a family favorite.
• Comforting: Perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and filling.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the sauce in advance, saving time when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This French Onion Gnocchi recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Sauce

• 1½ tablespoons olive oil
• 2½ tablespoons salted butter
• Kosher salt, (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, (to taste)
• 2 pounds yellow onion, (halved and thinly sliced)
• 1½ tablespoons thyme, (finely chopped)
• 6 cloves garlic, (minced)
• ½ cup dry white grape juice
• 2½ teaspoons dijon mustard
• 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
• 1 large bay leaf
• 2½ cups beef stock, (low sodium)

For Topping

• 24 ounces gnocchi, (store bought)
• 1½ cups gruyere cheese, (freshly grated)
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, (freshly grated)

Variations

One of the best things about French Onion Gnocchi is how adaptable it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the cheese: If gruyère isn’t available, try mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
• Change the stock: Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make French Onion Gnocchi

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter to your skillet. Once the butter melts, add in your sliced onions. This step is crucial—caramelizing the onions slowly over 45-60 minutes develops their sweetness and depth of flavor. Stir them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. If they start to dry out, add just a teaspoon or so of water at a time until they’re beautifully golden-brown.

Step 2: Add Thyme and Garlic

Once your onions are deep brown in color, stir in the finely chopped thyme and minced garlic. Cooking these aromatic ingredients together for about two minutes lets their flavors bloom beautifully. You’ll start to smell that wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Next up is adding the dry white grape juice. This will help lift all those tasty browned bits off the bottom of your skillet—those bits are packed with flavor! Allow it to simmer until it reduces by half; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle in your flour next and cook it briefly until it thickens slightly—this will help create a nice base for your sauce. Then mix in the dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce until everything blends nicely together.

Step 5: Simmer with Stock

Pour in your low sodium beef stock along with a bay leaf. Scrape those delicious brown bits from the bottom as you bring everything to a boil before lowering it down to a simmer. Let it cook gently so that it reduces slightly—about 6-7 minutes should do it! Season according to taste with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 6: Cook Gnocchi

While your sauce simmers away, prepare another pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. When it’s bubbling away happily, add in your gnocchi. They’re done cooking when they float to the top! Drain them well before transferring them into your rich onion mixture.

Step 7: Cheese It Up!

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Top your gnocchi mixture first with grated parmesan followed by gruyère cheese—this layering creates an irresistibly cheesy crust once broiled.

Step 8: Broil Until Melty

Transfer everything into an oven-safe dish and broil for 3-5 minutes or until that glorious cheese is fully melted and bubbly! Keep an eye on it so nothing burns—cheese can go from perfect to charred quickly!

Finally, garnish generously with fresh thyme before serving alongside crusty bread or a light salad if desired. Dig in immediately because this dish is best enjoyed hot! Enjoy every bite of this delightful French Onion Gnocchi—it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Gnocchi

Making the perfect French Onion Gnocchi can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Take your time with the onions: Caramelizing onions is an art that requires patience. Slow cooking allows the sugars to develop, resulting in that deep, rich flavor we all love.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme not only adds a burst of flavor but also brightens up the dish. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but nothing compares to fresh!

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning your cheese under the broiler creates a deliciously crispy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi and rich sauce.

• Adjust seasoning as you go: Taste your sauce throughout the cooking process. Adding salt and pepper gradually ensures you achieve that perfect balance of flavors.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Gruyère and Parmesan are traditional choices, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Fontina or mozzarella for a unique twist on this classic dish.

How to Serve French Onion Gnocchi

Serving French Onion Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some ideas for making it truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only looks beautiful but adds a touch of freshness.
• Chopped chives: Finely chopped chives bring a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds depth and a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. It’s an essential addition to any French-inspired meal.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty gnocchi.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini can add color and nutrition to your plate while enhancing flavors through caramelization.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with this rich main course.

Enjoy exploring these serving suggestions as you create your own unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store, freeze, and reheat your delicious gnocchi.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the dish as instructed and let it cool completely.
• Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Gnocchi!

Can I use homemade gnocchi for French Onion Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of your French Onion Gnocchi. Just be sure they are cooked properly before adding them to the sauce.

What type of cheese is best for French Onion Gnocchi?

For the best results, use freshly grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. These cheeses provide a rich flavor that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.

How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

To make this French Onion Gnocchi vegetarian, simply substitute beef stock with vegetable broth. The dish will still have a robust flavor without compromising on taste!

Is French Onion Gnocchi suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can store it in the fridge or even freeze portions for future meals, making it convenient and delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making this delightful French Onion Gnocchi at home! It’s rich, comforting, and truly special—perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a cozy night in. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!