If you’ve ever wished to capture the soul-soothing warmth of French onion soup in a handheld, creamy form, then you’re in for a treat with this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe. Imagine pillow-soft gnocchi bathed in a luscious broth-infused cream sauce, layered with deeply caramelized onions and crowned with bubbling, golden Gruyère cheese. It’s a heartfelt, cozy dish that elevates humble pantry staples into a decadent one-pan masterpiece. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special weeknight dinner, this recipe offers comfort and elegance all in one delightful bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe means gathering such simple yet vital ingredients that each play a starring role in flavor, texture, and color. From caramelized onions adding sweetness to the creamy sauce and the nutty Gruyère topping creating irresistible golden crust, each element brings something special to the table.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps evenly cook the onions and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for caramelizing onions to that perfect deep brown color and silky texture.
- Yellow onions (2 large, thinly sliced): The heart of the dish providing sweetness and depth when caramelized slowly.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Elevates all flavors and aids in softening the onions.
- Sugar (½ teaspoon): Balances the savory notes and encourages perfect caramelization.
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon) or dried (½ teaspoon): Adds an herbaceous fragrance that brightens each bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A punch of aromatics that complements the onions beautifully.
- Dry white wine (½ cup): Brings acidity and complexity to the sauce, lifting the rich flavors.
- Beef or vegetable broth (½ cup): The savory base that infuses the sauce with heartiness.
- Heavy cream (¾ cup): Creates the luscious, velvety texture that clings to the gnocchi.
- Gnocchi (1 lb, shelf-stable or refrigerated): The comforting vehicle soaking in every bit of sauce and cheese.
- Gruyère cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts gorgeously to form that signature browned and bubbly topping.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup grated): Adds a sharp, salty counterpoint to the creamy layers.
- Black pepper (to taste): Finishing spice that highlights all the savory notes.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild herbiness as garnish.
How to Make Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions alongside salt and sugar, then cook them slowly, stirring often for about 20 to 25 minutes. This patient process allows the onions to transform into a deeply golden, sweet, and silky bed of flavor that serves as the foundation for the entire recipe.
Step 2: Infuse with Herbs and Garlic
Once the onions have achieved that gorgeous caramelization, stir in fresh thyme and minced garlic. The aromas will be intoxicating as the garlic cooks gently for about a minute, avoiding any bitterness but releasing its savory scent into the pan.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer and reduce for 2 to 3 minutes until mostly evaporated. Then add the broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This melding step creates the luscious, broth-infused sauce that soaks every gnocchi piece with flavor and creaminess.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Cheese
Gently fold in the gnocchi, cooking for a couple of minutes until they begin to soften and soak in the sauce. Remove the skillet from heat, then mix in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese to melt slightly within. This sets the stage for an irresistibly cheesy and creamy dish before it even hits the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and all the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The result is a bubbly, golden crust with hints of toasted cheese that invites a satisfying crunch atop pillowy softness. Once baked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to settle all those lovely textures.
How to Serve Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of freshly ground black pepper enhances the savory layers without overpowering. For a burst of fresh color and a mild herb flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top just before serving; it brightens the dish visually and adds an inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair this warm, indulgent dish with crisp green salads or a crusty artisan bread to scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a light, vinegary slaw can also contrast the rich textures beautifully, rounding out your meal with fresh interest.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins for a charming rustic look that makes everyone feel special. Alternatively, top the baked gnocchi with a fried egg or some caramelized mushrooms for an added layer of luxury and a fun twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it a convenient and tasty next-day meal. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to retain the texture and flavor integrity as much as possible.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the crisp topping. Cover loosely with foil if reheating longer to prevent excessive browning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well too. Just add an extra minute or two during the stovetop cooking step to ensure they thaw out and soften before baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and make sure the cheeses are rennet-free. This keeps the dish completely vegetarian without sacrificing any flavor.
Can I substitute the Gruyère cheese?
If you don’t have Gruyère on hand, good-quality mozzarella or fontina can be tasty alternatives. They melt well and offer a mild creaminess, although the flavor will be slightly different.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in stores or you can make your own. Just ensure the broth and all other ingredients do not contain gluten.
What wine pairs well with this Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy and cheesy elements perfectly while balancing the rich onion flavors. Serve the same wine you cook with for a seamless experience.
Final Thoughts
This Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe is truly one of those recipes you’ll want to keep close for cozy nights and special dinners. It somehow manages to be decadent yet homey, elegant yet comforting. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to that feels like a warm hug on a plate. So grab your skillet and get ready to indulge in this cheesy, oniony, creamy masterpiece—you won’t regret it!
Print
Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked French onion gnocchi is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together pillowy gnocchi, caramelized onions, a savory broth-infused cream sauce, and a generous topping of melty Gruyère cheese. Inspired by classic French onion soup, this one-pan meal is rich, cheesy, and perfect for cold evenings or an indulgent weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid Ingredients
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for the baking step.
- Caramelize Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring often, until the onions become deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in fresh thyme and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until most of the wine has evaporated, concentrating the flavors.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to combine the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
- Cook Gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the stovetop until they begin to soften and absorb the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Prepare for Baking: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese. Then sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the gnocchi mixture.
- Bake: Place the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and browned.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes to settle. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and ensure the cheese is rennet-free.
- You can substitute mozzarella for Gruyère cheese if desired.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
