If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy dish that wraps up the rich, savory magic of French onion soup with the pillowy comfort of gnocchi, you’re in for a treat. This Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe brings together deeply caramelized onions, earthy thyme, tender gnocchi, and bubbly, golden cheese into one irresistible bake that feels both indulgent and like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with any night you want something special but easy enough to whip up without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because its ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but play such a key role in delivering the layers of flavor and texture you crave. Each element—from the sweetness of caramelized onions to the creamy melted cheese—works harmoniously to make this dish truly shine.
- Olive oil: For a subtle fruitiness and to perfectly sauté the onions without burning.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that luscious caramelization on the onions.
- Large sweet onion, thinly sliced: The star ingredient, offering a natural sweetness that mellows and deepens as it caramelizes.
- Fresh minced thyme: Infuses the dish with an herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Beef broth: Provides a savory, hearty base that deepens the flavor profile dramatically.
- Gnocchi (1 lb): Whether store-bought or homemade, these tender pillows soak up all the delicious oniony goodness.
- Salt and pepper: To enhance and balance all the other wonderful flavors.
- Shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding nutty creaminess and a golden crust.
- French bread, toasted: Perfect for dipping into the melty, savory sauce, making every bite more satisfying.
How to Make Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Start off by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Giving the oven plenty of time to heat ensures that when the cheesy gnocchi hits the pan, it bakes up beautifully with a golden, bubbling finish.
Step 2: Caramelize the onions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt together olive oil and butter over medium heat. Toss in those thinly sliced sweet onions, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they achieve a deep caramel color—about 20 minutes. This step is key! Those caramelized onions develop the rich sweetness that defines the dish’s flavor.
Step 3: Add thyme and broth
Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, sprinkle in fresh minced thyme for that herby punch. Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld while creating a luscious base for the gnocchi to cook in.
Step 4: Cook the gnocchi in the broth
Add your gnocchi straight to the skillet and cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 10 minutes. The gnocchi will soak up the flavorful broth and become tender, while the liquid thickens slightly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper here to balance the taste perfectly.
Step 5: Bake with cheese
Transfer the gnocchi and onion broth mixture to a greased baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese over the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown. This baking step adds an irresistible crust that contrasts with the soft gnocchi inside.
Step 6: Serve warm with toasted bread
Serve your creation hot, accompanied by slices of toasted French bread. The crunch and slight char on the bread make it the ideal partner for scooping up every bit of that cheesy, oniony goodness.
How to Serve Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and fresh aroma that brightens the dish just before serving. A pinch of cracked black pepper on the melted cheese can also elevate the flavor with a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This bowl of baked indulgence pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette, balancing the richness with fresh, zesty notes. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts also make great vitamin-packed side dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this dish in individual ramekins to give a charming personal touch. Alternatively, scoop it over a bed of baby arugula or sprinkle with toasted nuts for textural contrast. Even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can bring an unexpected yet delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the dish even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the baked dish before baking or after baking once completely cooled. To freeze before baking, cover tightly and store for up to 2 months. To freeze after baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that wonderful baked cheese texture. Microwave heating works in a pinch but the oven keeps the dish tasting closest to freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth will give a lighter flavor, and the dish will still be delicious, though it won’t have quite the same deep richness that beef broth provides.
Is homemade gnocchi better for this recipe?
Homemade gnocchi adds a lovely fresh texture, but store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully well for convenience without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use vegetarian-friendly cheese to keep all the flavor while accommodating a vegetarian diet.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Gruyère is the classic choice for its nutty, creamy melt, but Swiss cheese works great as a delicious alternative. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or fontina for different melty textures.
How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?
The gnocchi will float to the surface and become plump and tender after simmering in the broth for about 5 to 10 minutes. Give them a quick taste to ensure they are soft and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Making this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe is like inviting a little piece of comfort food heaven into your kitchen. The layers of caramelized onions, tender gnocchi, and melted cheese come together so harmoniously you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet impressive enough for guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a favorite.
Print
Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
This Baked French Onion Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender gnocchi simmered in a rich, caramelized onion and beef broth sauce, then baked with melted Swiss or Gruyère cheese on top. Served with toasted French bread for dipping, it’s a perfect hearty meal that combines the classic tastes of French onion soup with the delightful texture of gnocchi.
Ingredients
For the Onion Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme
For the Stew
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping and Serving
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 8–10 slices French bread, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the gnocchi casserole later.
- Caramelize 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, which should take about 20 minutes. This process develops the sweet and rich base flavor for the dish.
- Add thyme and broth: Stir in the fresh minced thyme to aromatize the onions, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine flavors and create a flavorful sauce.
- Cook gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the broth has thickened, about 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the overall flavor.
- Bake with cheese: Transfer the gnocchi and onion broth mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly top with shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot alongside toasted French bread slices which are perfect for dipping into the cheesy, savory broth. Enjoy this comforting baked French onion gnocchi dish immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and use a vegetarian cheese.
- You can use store-bought gnocchi to save time, or homemade for a fresher texture.
- Keep an eye on onions while caramelizing to avoid burning; they should be a deep golden brown.
- Gruyère cheese offers a nuttier flavor, while Swiss cheese is milder—choose according to your preference.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking, then bake just before serving.
