Name: French Onion Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 2 cups); ¼ cup red wine (or extra broth); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 1½ cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or vegetarian alternative); 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi, uncooked; 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, Fontina, Monterey Jack); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe transforms the classic French onion soup into a satisfying main course. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions, savory broth, and creamy cheese pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of gnocchi. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that feels indulgent without requiring extensive preparation.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
¼ cup red wine
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1½ cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi, uncooked
1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
Parsley, for garnish

Directions

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, I heat the olive oil and butter until the butter melts.
I add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, for 15–20 minutes until they are very tender and deeply caramelized.
I pour in the red wine and continue cooking until it has completely evaporated.
I season the onions with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
I add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
I reduce the heat to low and stir in the uncooked gnocchi, simmering for about 3–5 minutes until the gnocchi are tender.
I sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top and place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
I remove the skillet from the oven, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cook time of 28 minutes, totaling around 38 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Cheese Alternatives: If Gruyère is unavailable, I use Swiss, Fontina, or Monterey Jack cheese.
Broth Options: For a lighter flavor, I substitute chicken broth for beef broth.
Wine Substitute: If I prefer not to use wine, I replace it with additional beef broth.
Herb Additions: I sometimes add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for extra depth

Storage and Reheating

I allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they keep for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, I warm the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes, I can use homemade gnocchi. I ensure they are cooked before adding them to the sauce, as they may require a different cooking time than store-bought versions.

Is it necessary to use an oven-safe skillet?

Using an oven-safe skillet allows me to broil the cheese topping directly. If I don’t have one, I transfer the mixture to a baking dish before broiling.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. I substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly.

What can I serve with French Onion Gnocchi?

I often serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, I can freeze the cooled gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

French Onion Gnocchi is a delightful twist on a classic soup, transforming it into a hearty, satisfying meal. The combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese over tender gnocchi creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or to impress guests with minimal effort.