Simple Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe

Introduction

Simple Baked French Onion Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender gnocchi with rich caramelized onions and melted cheese. This easy recipe brings the classic French onion soup flavors into a hearty casserole perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup white wine
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups beef broth
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh minced thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large sweet onion (thinly sliced)
• 8-10 slices French bread (day-old works best)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese (Gruyere preferred for deeper flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the olive oil and unsalted butter together. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes. Take your time for sweeter, more flavorful onions.
2. Step 2: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the fresh minced thyme (or dried thyme) and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Step 3: Add the gnocchi and stir occasionally over medium heat until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened and reduced, about 5-10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Season the gnocchi mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer everything into a greased medium baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese.
5. Step 5: Bake the assembled gnocchi at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and the gnocchi is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
6. Step 6: Serve the hot gnocchi bake with French bread slices on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
• Use Gruyere cheese for a richer, nuttier flavor or Swiss cheese for a milder taste.
• Allow the onions to caramelize slowly to maximize sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Day-old French bread works best for dipping as it holds up better without getting soggy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and cheese is bubbly, or microwave individual portions until hot.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, both fresh and frozen gnocchi work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure frozen gnocchi is fully cooked when simmered in the broth mixture.

What can I substitute for French bread?

If you don’t have French bread, a crusty Italian loaf or baguette will work well for dipping. Toasting the bread slightly can add extra texture and flavor.