French Onion Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that’s sure to impress, this French Onion Gnocchi is just the ticket! Imagine soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a warm, luscious sauce inspired by classic French onion soup. It’s like a big hug on a plate! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish even more special is its rich flavor profile that combines caramelized onions with melted cheese—who can resist that? Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cheesy comfort food, making this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the sauce in advance and then just cook the gnocchi when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of flavors from caramelized onions and melted cheese creates a taste that’s simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that pack a punch of flavor. You might already have some of these staples in your pantry!

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 the Topping

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

Variations

This French Onion Gnocchi is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize it to your taste:

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use different cheeses: Swap out gruyere for mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer something milder.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for an extra luxurious sauce.

How to Make French Onion Gnocchi

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter to a large skillet. Once the butter has melted, toss in those thinly sliced onions. This step is crucial; caramelizing onions takes time—about 45-60 minutes—but it’s worth every second! Stir them every few minutes and be patient. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. If needed, add a touch of water. About 40 minutes into cooking those beautiful golden onions, bring a medium pot of salted water to boil; we’ll be using that shortly!

Step 2: Add Thyme and Garlic

Once those onions are deep brown and fragrant, stir in the thyme and minced garlic. Cooking them together for about two minutes allows their flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll notice such an inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Next up, pour in the white grape juice and let it cook until reduced by half—this should take about 3-4 minutes. This step adds depth to our sauce. Then sprinkle in flour and cook until slightly thickened; this helps bind everything together as we build our delicious sauce.

Step 4: Simmer with Beef Stock

Stir in the beef stock along with that bay leaf we set aside earlier. Scrape all those tasty brown bits from the bottom of the skillet—those are pure flavor! Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a simmer for about 6-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Don’t forget to season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper!

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

While our sauce simmers away, let’s focus on that gnocchi! Drop it into your boiling salted water. Once they float up to the top—typically after just 2-3 minutes—they’re ready! Drain them well before adding them directly into your rich onion sauce.

Step 6: Broil with Cheese

Now comes one of my favorite parts: topping everything with cheese! Sprinkle grated parmesan first followed by gruyere on top of our gnocchi mixture. Pop it under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, garnish with some fresh thyme for an extra touch of elegance (and flavor!). Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or a light salad for balance. Dig in—you’re going to love every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Gnocchi

Making the perfect French Onion Gnocchi can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!

• Take your time with the onions: Caramelizing onions slowly is key to achieving that deep, rich flavor. Rushing this step can result in less sweetness and depth, so enjoy the process!

• Use high-quality stock: The base of your sauce is essential. A good low-sodium beef stock will enhance the flavors significantly. It makes all the difference in creating a savory and delicious dish.

• Don’t skip the cheese blending: Layering your cheeses, starting with Parmesan followed by Gruyère, allows for a rich melty texture and deeper flavor profile. Each cheese contributes its own unique taste.

• Watch your gnocchi closely: When cooking gnocchi, keep an eye on them as they float to the top of the boiling water—this means they’re ready! Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme works beautifully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further!

How to Serve French Onion Gnocchi

Presenting your French Onion Gnocchi beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only adds color but also enhances the aromatic experience.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a hint of spice and freshness right before serving.
• Chopped chives: These mild onion-flavored herbs bring a lovely pop of color and an additional layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. It complements the richness of the gnocchi beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic serve as an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with the richness of French onion gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and balance out the meal’s flavors.

Enjoy creating your beautiful spread around this delectable French Onion Gnocchi!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Gnocchi is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the rich flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the gnocchi cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use other types of cheese for French Onion Gnocchi?

Absolutely! While gruyère adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella or fontina if you prefer something milder.

How long does French Onion Gnocchi last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your French Onion Gnocchi will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make French Onion Gnocchi vegan?

Yes! You can replace butter with vegan butter and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. For cheese, try a plant-based alternative.

What is special about French Onion Gnocchi?

French Onion Gnocchi combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with the rich flavors of classic French onion soup, creating a unique and hearty dish that’s sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this French Onion Gnocchi as much as I do! Its combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish brings warmth and happiness to the table. Happy cooking!