Name: Baked French Onion Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup gruyère cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Baked French Onion Gnocchi combines the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup with the delightful texture of gnocchi, creating a dish that is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. It’s a meal that not only warms your belly but also your heart. The rich taste of caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and bubbly cheese come together to form a wonderful casserole that the whole family will adore. This delightful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or even as an impressive main course for guests.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 550
Protein: 20 grams
Carbohydrates: 62 grams
Fat: 25 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Baked French Onion Gnocchi is a fantastic comfort food that brings together the wonderful flavors of sweet caramelized onions and melty cheese in a unique presentation. Not only is it a delightful twist on a classic dish, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxing weekends. The gnocchi adds a fluffy, pillowy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich broth, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make in larger batches, so you can feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

How to Make Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Ingredients:

1 pound gnocchi
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your dish gets that nice bubbly, golden finish on top.
Step 2: Sautéing Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize to a deep golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. This step really brings out their sweetness and flavor!
Step 3: Mixing

Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the broth and sprinkle in the thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combining and Baking

Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float; then drain them. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the flavorful onion mixture. Transfer everything to a baking dish and generously sprinkle the top with gruyère and parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the oven for best flavor. You can present it family-style in the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves or serve individual portions topped with a sprinkle of parsley for a touch of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

How to Store Baked French Onion Gnocchi

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked French Onion Gnocchi

To achieve the best caramelization on your onions, ensure you cook them over medium heat and be patient; it can take some time but is well worth the wait.
For an even richer taste, use homemade beef broth if available.
Consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth for an additional layer of flavor.
Feel free to substitute gnocchi with your preferred pasta if you can’t find it.
If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the broth!

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the onion mix for added freshness.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetable broth and add extra veggies like spinach or kale for a more nutritious meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onion mixture and cook the gnocchi in advance. Simply combine them together and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What if I don’t have gruyère cheese?
No worries! You can replace gruyère with Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even a mixture of your favorite cheeses.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the gnocchi. However, you can find gluten-free gnocchi options in many grocery stores.
How do I know when the onions are properly caramelized?
The onions should be a deep golden brown in color and have a sweet aroma. This typically takes 20-25 minutes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the gnocchi mixture before baking. Just thaw and bake whenever you’re ready to enjoy it!

Conclusion

Baked French Onion Gnocchi is comfort food at its finest, combining the velvety richness of creamy cheese and the savory sweetness of caramelized onions with soft, pillowy gnocchi. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s sure to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delightful dish! You won’t regret it!