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French Onion Gnocchi | Cozy, Cheesy Comfort Food

If you love the deep, rich flavors of French onion soup but want a hearty twist, this French Onion Gnocchi is the recipe for you. Imagine golden, caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth, tossed with pillowy potato gnocchi, and topped with melty Gruyère cheese. It’s cozy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting—a dish that feels elegant but is surprisingly simple to make. This one-pan meal combines the rustic charm of French onion soup with the heartiness of pasta, creating a recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you’ll transform humble onions into a flavorful sauce that clings to each bite of gnocchi. Whether you’re looking for a warming fall dish, a cozy winter dinner, or a fun alternative to traditional pasta, this recipe delivers all the comfort of French onion soup in a new, irresistible form.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup extra beef broth + 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar to replace red wine
  • 1 package potato gnocchi about 16 oz
  • 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese shredded
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Cheese grater (for Gruyère)
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add sliced onions, salt, and garlic powder.
  3. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until onions are golden brown and caramelized.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
  1. Stir in balsamic vinegar + extra broth mixture (instead of red wine) to deglaze the pan. Scrape up browned bits for extra flavor.
  2. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
  3. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
  1. While onions simmer, cook gnocchi in boiling salted water according to package instructions (usually 2–3 minutes until they float).
  2. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Combine & Melt
  1. Add cooked gnocchi to the onion mixture. Toss well to coat.
  2. Sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese over the top.
  3. Cover skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 3–4 minutes, until cheese melts and becomes gooey.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley.
  2. Serve hot in bowls with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended (gnocchi texture changes).
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen sauce. Microwave in short bursts if needed.
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Cheese Swap: Replace Gruyère with mozzarella, Swiss, or a sharp white cheddar.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or spinach for extra depth and nutrition.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works great.
2. Do I need to caramelize the onions for 30 minutes?
Yes, slow cooking develops the sweet, rich flavor that makes this dish special.
3. Can I skip the cheese?
It won’t be the same—cheese makes it “French onion” inspired. But you can use less if preferred.
4. What can I use instead of Gruyère?
Mozzarella, Swiss, or provolone are good substitutes.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free gnocchi and check labels on broth and Worcestershire sauce.
6. What protein pairs well with this dish?
Grilled chicken, steak strips, or even roasted mushrooms.
7. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare onions in advance and finish the recipe later.
8. Is this dish heavy?
It’s rich but portioned well—it’s balanced with gnocchi and onions.
9. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, cook directly from frozen, just add 1–2 minutes to cooking time.
10. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese.
🏁 Conclusion
This French Onion Gnocchi is cozy, cheesy, and full of flavor. With caramelized onions, savory broth, gooey Gruyère, and tender gnocchi, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together with simple ingredients.
It’s a perfect choice for weeknight comfort food, but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Each bite delivers the flavors of French onion soup wrapped around pillowy gnocchi—pure magic in a skillet.