Print

French Onion Gnocchi Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 4 reviews

A rich and comforting French Onion Gnocchi dish with deeply caramelized onions, a savory thyme and garlic-infused sauce, and topped with melted Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses, broiled to perfection. Perfect as a hearty main or an elegant side pairing well with crusty bread or salad.

Ingredients

Sauce and Onion Mixture

  • 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 wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
  • 2½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • 2½ cups low sodium beef stock

Main Ingredients

  • 24 ounces store-bought gnocchi
  • 1½ cups Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Instructions

  1. Caramelize Onions: Over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together until the butter melts. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir occasionally every few minutes. Cook slowly without rushing, allowing the onions to caramelize and turn a deep brown color over 45-60 minutes. If the mixture dries out, add 1½ teaspoons of water at a time to maintain moisture.
  2. Add Herbs and Garlic: When onions are deeply browned, stir in the chopped thyme and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and cook until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens. Then add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, mixing thoroughly to blend all ingredients.
  5. Add Stock and Simmer: Pour in the beef stock and add the bay leaf. Scrape the skillet bottom to release brown bits for flavor. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer until the liquid reduces slightly, about 6-7 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  6. Cook Gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, then drain well.
  7. Combine Gnocchi with Sauce: Add the drained gnocchi to the caramelized onion sauce. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi evenly.
  8. Add Cheese and Broil: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the gnocchi mixture first, then add the grated Gruyère cheese on top. Transfer the dish to an oven and broil for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with additional fresh thyme, and serve immediately. Enjoy with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad as desired.

Notes

  • Caramelizing onions slowly is crucial to develop their deep, sweet flavor—avoid high heat to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute beef stock with vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan alternative.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best melting quality and flavor.
  • Broil carefully and watch closely to prevent cheese from burning.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or warm, buttery mashed potatoes.