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

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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.