Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Gnocchi is a comforting fusion dish that combines the deep, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with pillowy soft gnocchi. Caramelized onions, a splash of wine, and melty cheese make this a cozy and indulgent one-pan meal perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something rich and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

gnocchiyellow onionsbutterolive oilgarlicbeef or vegetable brothdry white winefresh thymebay leafsalt and peppergruyère cheeseparmesan cheeseflour (optional, for thickening)

directions

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply caramelized—about 30–40 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, and a bay leaf, cooking for another minute.

Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits.

Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.

Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet and cook until they’re soft and heated through, about 5–7 minutes. If the sauce is too thin, you can sprinkle in a little flour and stir until thickened.

Stir in shredded gruyère and parmesan until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Optional: broil in an oven-safe skillet for 2–3 minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 45 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Swap gruyère for Swiss or provolone if preferred.

Use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb version.

Add mushrooms for extra umami depth.

Use red wine instead of white for a richer flavor.

Top with crispy onions or croutons for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.Freeze in portions for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi all work well.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No, they cook directly in the sauce, absorbing flavor as they simmer.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based ingredients.

What cheese is best for French Onion flavor?

Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or fontina also melt beautifully.

Can I caramelize the onions faster?

Low and slow is best for flavor, but a pinch of baking soda can help speed it up slightly.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and check your broth and cheeses to ensure they’re certified GF.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, after cooking on the stove, finish under the broiler for a gratin-style dish.

Is wine necessary?

No, you can skip it or replace it with extra broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Can I add protein?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef work well mixed in.

Conclusion

French Onion Gnocchi brings the cozy richness of a beloved soup into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels gourmet yet comes together in one pan with minimal fuss. Whether for a dinner party or a weeknight indulgence, it’s sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture.