French Onion Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to my favorite French Onion Gnocchi. This delightful recipe combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich, savory sauce inspired by the classic French onion soup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting or for family gatherings where you want to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

This French Onion Gnocchi is not just delicious; it also has that magical ability to bring people together around the dinner table. The aroma of caramelized onions fills the air and sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this comforting delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness and soft gnocchi.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the sauce in advance and just add the gnocchi when you’re ready to eat!
• Comfort food at its best: The rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering good ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this French Onion Gnocchi, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully to create a rich flavor profile.

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 Topping

• 24 ounces gnocchi, (store bought)
• 1½ cups gruyere cheese, (freshly grated)
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, (freshly grated)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the cheese: If you’re not a fan of gruyère or parmesan, try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist.
• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute beef stock with vegetable stock for a delicious meat-free version.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little kick!

How to Make French Onion Gnocchi

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts, toss in the onions. Stir every few minutes as they cook slowly to develop their sweetness. Don’t rush this process; caramelizing onions takes time—about 45-60 minutes! If they start to brown too quickly or dry out, add water as needed. This step is crucial because well-caramelized onions are what give this dish its signature flavor.

Step 2: Add Thyme and Garlic

Once your onions are beautifully deep brown in color, stir in the thyme and minced garlic. Cook them together for about two minutes until fragrant. This combination enhances the overall taste and aroma of your French Onion Gnocchi.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Grape Juice

Pour in the white grape juice and let it simmer until reduced by half—about 3-4 minutes. This deglazing step lifts all those delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of your pan into your sauce.

Step 4: Thicken Your Sauce

Sprinkle in flour to thicken up your mixture while stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes. Then mix in dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce until well blended. These ingredients add depth to your sauce that delights every palate.

Step 5: Add Stock and Season

Now add beef stock along with a bay leaf. Scrape any remaining bits from the skillet as you bring everything to a boil before lowering it back down to simmer for about 6-7 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste while waiting for it all to thicken nicely.

Step 6: Cook Your Gnocchi

While waiting on that lovely sauce to thicken up just right, boil salted water in another pot. Toss in your gnocchi; once they float up to the surface (which means they’re done!), drain them well before transferring them directly into your caramelized onion mixture.

Step 7: Cheese It Up!

Top off your gnocchi-sauce mix first with grated parmesan followed by gruyère cheese on top. Now it’s time for some broiling magic—transfer that skillet into an oven set on broil for about 3-5 minutes until everything is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving piping hot alongside some crusty bread or salad if desired. Take a moment—you deserve it! Enjoy every bite of this luscious French Onion Gnocchi!

Pro Tips for Making French Onion Gnocchi

Making French Onion Gnocchi is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Caramelize Slowly: Take your time with the onions; this process can take 45-60 minutes. Slow cooking allows the natural sugars to develop, resulting in that rich, sweet flavor characteristic of French onion soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh thyme and high-quality cheeses. Fresh herbs and cheese will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish, making each bite more vibrant.

• Don’t Skip the Broiling: Broiling the cheese creates that irresistible golden crust on top. This added texture contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi and adds a delicious depth of flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Each ingredient contributes to the overall taste, so adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a perfectly balanced dish.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like fontina or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Cheese can bring unique nuances that make your dish stand out!

How to Serve French Onion Gnocchi

Serving French Onion Gnocchi can be an art! With its rich flavors and creamy textures, it deserves to be presented beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only adds color but also enhances the aromatic experience of the dish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting just before serving gives an extra kick and visual appeal.
• Chopped Parsley: For a splash of color, finely chopped parsley can brighten up your plate while adding a fresh herbaceous note.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Consider serving it with a side of herbed butter for an extra touch!

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi. Fresh veggies add crunch and freshness which complements the dish beautifully.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide an indulgent pairing that matches well with the savory notes of this gnocchi. The smooth texture complements the pillowy gnocchi perfectly.

• Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans add color and nutrients while keeping your meal well-rounded without overshadowing the main dish.

Enjoy crafting this comforting meal with these tips and serving ideas! Bon appétit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Gnocchi is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for a quick dinner option later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion out the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If desired, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and broil briefly for that melty goodness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious French Onion Gnocchi recipe.

Can I use homemade gnocchi for French Onion Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will add an extra touch of love to this comforting dish. Just ensure they are cooked properly before mixing them with the sauce.

What makes French Onion Gnocchi different from traditional French onion soup?

French Onion Gnocchi combines the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with soft, pillowy gnocchi. This creates a heartier dish that’s perfect as a main course rather than just a soup.

How do I prevent my onions from burning while making French Onion Gnocchi?

The key is to cook them low and slow. Keep your heat at medium and stir occasionally. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to keep them moist.

Can I substitute other cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While gruyère adds a wonderfully nutty flavor, you can swap it with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful French Onion Gnocchi! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth to any dinner table, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process—don’t hesitate to make it your own! Happy cooking!