French Onion Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this French Onion Gnocchi is just what you need! This recipe combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich, savory onion sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s one of those meals that make busy weeknights feel special or elevate family gatherings into something memorable. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a cherished favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Even if you’re not an experienced cook, this recipe walks you through every step with ease.
• Family-friendly: The combination of gnocchi and cheese makes it a hit for both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just boil the gnocchi when you’re ready to eat!
• Rich flavors: The caramelized onions create a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile dish: Great as a main course or served alongside your favorite sides!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful French Onion Gnocchi, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of them might already be in your pantry! Here’s what to gather:

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 Gnocchi

• 24 ounces gnocchi (store bought)

For Topping

• 1½ cups gruyere cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Variations

This French Onion Gnocchi recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap out the beef stock for vegetable stock to keep the same deliciousness without meat.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dishes.

How to Make French Onion Gnocchi

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter to your skillet. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, toss in the sliced onions. Stir them occasionally but don’t rush this process; good caramelized onions take about 45-60 minutes. This slow cooking allows their natural sugars to develop a sweet flavor that forms the base of our sauce. If things start to dry out too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water.

Step 2: Add Thyme and Garlic

Once your onions are deep brown and fragrant (around 40 minutes in), stir in the finely chopped thyme and minced garlic. Cook for about two minutes until everything is beautifully aromatic. This step really adds depth to our sauce!

Step 3: Deglaze with White Grape Juice

Pour in the white grape juice and let it simmer until reduced by half—this should take around 3-4 minutes. This helps pick up all those tasty browned bits stuck at the bottom of your pan while adding just enough acidity to brighten up the flavors.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the flour next; this will help thicken your sauce just right! Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes before adding in the dijon mustard and worcestershire sauce—stirring well until everything is combined.

Step 5: Simmer with Beef Stock

Now it’s time to introduce our savory beef stock along with that bay leaf we’ve been saving. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom of your skillet—you want all those flavors! Bring everything to a boil then lower it down to a gentle simmer for about 6-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi

While you wait for your delicious sauce to thicken up nicely, bring another pot of salted water to boil and add your gnocchi. Once they float to the top (which means they’re done!), drain them well before mixing them into your lovely onion sauce.

Step 7: Top with Cheese & Broil

Sprinkle grated parmesan over your gnocchi first followed by gruyère cheese—it creates such an amazing cheesy crust! Transfer this beauty into an oven-safe dish and broil on high for about 3-5 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with some fresh thyme leaves for that final touch. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes—trust me; you’ll want something handy to soak up all that incredible flavor! Enjoy every bite of this cozy French Onion Gnocchi!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Gnocchi

Making this French Onion Gnocchi dish is a joy, and with a few clever tips, you can elevate your cooking experience even further!

• Take your time with the onions: Slow-cooking the onions allows them to caramelize beautifully, enhancing their sweetness and flavor. Rushing this step can lead to burnt bits that won’t taste as delightful.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme not only adds depth of flavor but also a pleasant aroma. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh will always make your dish shine.

• Don’t skip the browning: When you add the gnocchi to the sauce, make sure it’s hot and bubbling. This helps to meld all the flavors together and gives the gnocchi a deliciously soft texture.

• Experiment with cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing different cheeses like fontina or mozzarella with the gruyère for added creaminess and flavor complexity.

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the onion sauce in advance and just cook the gnocchi right before serving. This will save you time when entertaining guests or on busy weeknights.

How to Serve French Onion Gnocchi

Presenting French Onion Gnocchi is all about showcasing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only look beautiful but also add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle some chopped parsley for a pop of color and an herbaceous note that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. It’s simple, yet so satisfying!
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as Brussels sprouts or carrots will add texture and healthy balance to your meal.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a classic side that complements the flavors of French Onion Gnocchi wonderfully!

Enjoy creating this comforting dish in your kitchen! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish without the last-minute rush. Here are some tips on how to store and reheat this comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Separate the cheese topping if possible to keep it from getting soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the gnocchi cool completely and place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can also be divided into portions for easy defrosting later.
• Label with the date and consume within 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock or water as needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 20 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help you out.

Can I make French Onion Gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the gnocchi ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above to ensure freshness.

What can I substitute for beef stock in French Onion Gnocchi?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works beautifully as a substitute while still providing rich flavor.

How do I prevent my French Onion Gnocchi from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushiness, make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float and drain them immediately. Also, stir gently when combining with the sauce.

Can I use different cheese in my French Onion Gnocchi?

Yes! While gruyere is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with French Onion Gnocchi?

This dish goes wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope this French Onion Gnocchi brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. It’s a dish that combines rich flavors and cozy textures into one satisfying meal. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!