Introduction

French Onion Gnocchi is a rich and comforting dish that marries the sweet depth of caramelized onions with tender gnocchi. Topped with melted gruyère and parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

The dish is a close-up of a skillet filled with bubbling baked gnocchi covered in melted cheese and a rich, golden brown sauce. The top layer is thick, gooey cheese with browned spots and a slightly crispy texture. Below the cheese, soft, plump gnocchi pieces can be seen coated with a glossy, caramelized onion and sauce mixture, creating a sticky and savory look. A wooden spoon is scooping some of the cheesy gnocchi from the skillet, showing the texture of the sauce and cheese as it pulls away. The skillet is white on the inside with a smooth orange outer surface and is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1½ tablespoons olive oil
2½ tablespoons salted butter
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
24 ounces gnocchi, store bought
2 pounds yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
1½ tablespoons thyme, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
2½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 large bay leaf
2½ cups beef stock, low sodium
1½ cups gruyère cheese, freshly grated
½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the sliced onions and stir every few minutes. Caramelize slowly for 45-60 minutes, ensuring the onions brown evenly without burning. Add 1½ teaspoons of water at a time if the mixture dries out.
Step 2: About 40 minutes into cooking onions, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 3: Once onions are deep brown, stir in thyme and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add white wine and cook until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, blending well.
Step 6: Add beef stock and bay leaf, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cook until liquid reduces slightly, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Add gnocchi to boiling water. When they float, drain well and mix into the onion sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over gnocchi, then top with gruyère. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

For an extra layer of flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken along with the gnocchi.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute beef stock with vegetable stock.
Caramelizing onions slowly is key—avoid rushing to develop rich, sweet flavor.

Storage

Store leftover French Onion Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to preserve the cheese topping. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the gnocchi to become mushy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baking pan filled with a bubbly, golden brown dish made of small round pasta mixed with melted cheese and caramelized onions. The top layer has browned, slightly crispy cheese with a glossy texture and spots of dark char. The pasta pieces are creamy yellow and soft, peeking through the sticky, rich sauce. A wooden spoon is scooping out some of the cheesy pasta from the pan, showing the thick, gooey sauce underneath. The pan is a warm orange color, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the caramelized onion sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Assemble the dish and broil just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have gruyère?

Gruyère adds a signature nutty flavor, but you can substitute with Swiss cheese or mozzarella for a milder taste. Parmesan should still be included for saltiness and depth.