Description
This Simple Baked French Onion Gnocchi recipe combines tender gnocchi with deeply caramelized sweet onions simmered in a savory broth, topped with melted Gruyere cheese, and baked until golden and bubbling. It’s a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large sweet onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp fresh minced thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 8-10 slices French bread (day-old works best)
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese (preferably Gruyere)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensuring it is ready for baking after preparing the gnocchi mixture.
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the olive oil and unsalted butter together over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes, which enhances their sweetness and flavor.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the fresh minced thyme and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer to blend the flavors.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the simmering broth mixture. Stir occasionally over medium heat until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened and reduced, about 5-10 minutes.
- Season: Season the gnocchi mixture with salt and pepper to your taste to amplify the flavors.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the gnocchi mixture into a greased medium baking dish and spread it evenly. Generously sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese on top to create a rich, melted crust.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dish at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbling, indicating perfect melting and golden finish.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve with the sliced French bread on the side for dipping, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy baked gnocchi dish.
Notes
- Day-old French bread is best for serving as it is firmer and holds up well for dipping.
- Using Gruyere cheese provides a richer flavor, but Swiss cheese is a good substitute.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Ensure onions are cooked low and slow for proper caramelization without burning.
- This dish can be prepared ahead up to the baking step and baked just before serving.
