Savor the delicious combination of French Onion Gnocchi with this mouthwatering recipe. This dish brings together the comforting flavors of French onion soup and the delightful texture of gnocchi, making it perfect for dinner gatherings or cozy nights in. The rich caramelized onions and melted Gruyere cheese elevate this meal, ensuring every bite is a treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of caramelized onions and savory beef broth creates an irresistible sauce that enhances the gnocchi.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Comfort Food: This dish combines elements from classic French cuisine, offering a warm and satisfying meal ideal for any chilly evening.
- Versatile: French Onion Gnocchi can be served as a main dish or as a side, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melted Gruyere cheese adds richness and depth, making each serving delightful.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your French Onion Gnocchi efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These items will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Oven-safe dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed skillet: Ensures even heat distribution for perfect caramelization of onions.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware’s surface.
- Oven-safe dish: Allows you to broil the gnocchi easily and achieve that golden cheese topping.
Ingredients
Prepare to create a delicious plate of French Onion Gnocchi with these simple ingredients:
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, (thinly sliced (about 2 cups))
- ¼ cup (60 g) red apple vinegar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups (360 g) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Gnocchi
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi, (uncooked)
For Topping
- 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) Gruyère cheese, (shredded)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make French Onion Gnocchi
Step 1: Sauté Onions
To a large oven-safe, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted:
1. Add the sliced onions.
2. Sauté for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until they are very tender and have a deep caramel color.
Step 2: Add Vinegar
Toward the end of cooking the onions:
1. Add red apple vinegar.
2. Continue cooking until the apple vinegar has completely evaporated.
Step 3: Seasonings
Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the onion mixture:
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce:
1. Stir everything together.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook Gnocchi
Reduce heat to low before adding the gnocchi:
1. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi are cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Broil Cheese
Once the gnocchi are cooked:
1. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the top.
2. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and lightly browns.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from oven:
1. Garnish with parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve French Onion Gnocchi
French Onion Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its rich flavors. Whether you are entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the caramelized onions.
Accompanied by a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi.
- Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing pairs well with the savory notes in the dish.
Paired with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the overall meal experience.
As a Standalone Dish
- Main Course Delight: Serve it hot right from the skillet as a comforting main course.
- Individual Portions: For an elegant presentation, serve in individual ramekins topped with cheese before broiling.
How to Perfect French Onion Gnocchi
Creating French onion gnocchi that’s both flavorful and satisfying requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
- Bold Onions: Use sweet yellow onions for rich caramelization, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Cook onions slowly to achieve that perfect caramel color; patience is key!
- Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality beef broth for a richer taste that elevates your dish.
- Cheese Choice: Gruyère cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Gnocchi Texture: Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Broiling Technique: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to avoid burning; it should be golden and bubbly.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Gnocchi
To complement the hearty flavors of French Onion Gnocchi, consider these side dishes. They bring balance and variety, making your meal even more enjoyable.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy gnocchi.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a savory element that pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite, balancing the richness of the gnocchi.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, creamy garlic mashed potatoes make an indulgent side without overwhelming the palate.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers offer a light and colorful option to brighten up your plate.
- Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with balsamic vinegar add sweetness and acidity that cuts through richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making French Onion Gnocchi, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoiding these pitfalls will help ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.
- Using undercooked gnocchi: Ensure the gnocchi is fully cooked before serving. Simmering them for the recommended time will give them the right texture.
- Skipping the caramelization step: Caramelizing onions adds depth of flavor. Take the time to cook them slowly until they are golden brown.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference for optimal flavor in your French Onion Gnocchi.
- Overcrowding the skillet: If using a smaller skillet, cook in batches. This allows for even cooking and better caramelization of onions.
- Neglecting to garnish: Don’t forget to add fresh parsley as a garnish. It adds a nice touch of color and freshness to your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing French Onion Gnocchi
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating French Onion Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer a serving portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is French Onion Gnocchi?
French Onion Gnocchi combines tender potato gnocchi with a rich onion-based sauce inspired by classic French onion soup. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Can I use different cheese in French Onion Gnocchi?
Yes! While Gruyère is traditional, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make vegetarian French Onion Gnocchi, simply replace beef broth with vegetable broth. The flavors will still be delicious!
What should I serve with French Onion Gnocchi?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
French Onion Gnocchi is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. Its versatility allows for customization—whether you want to try different cheeses or add protein like chicken or mushrooms, the possibilities are endless. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try today!

French Onion Gnocchi
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover the warmth and comfort of French Onion Gnocchi, a delightful dish that marries the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with tender potato gnocchi. This recipe features caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth, topped with gooey Gruyère cheese that melts beautifully under the broiler. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, ensuring an unforgettable meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their guests with this comforting, cheesy masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup red apple vinegar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 16-ounce package potato gnocchi (uncooked)
- 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté for 15-20 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in red apple vinegar and cook until evaporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; bring to a simmer.
- Add gnocchi; cook on low heat for about 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until melted and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian option, replace beef broth with vegetable broth without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella based on your preference.

