Baked French Onion Gnocchi

This simple baked French onion gnocchi is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef broth with pillowy gnocchi and melted Gruyere cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss, it brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen.

I first made this on a chilly weekend and the whole family was hooked instantly. Now it’s become one of those go-to dishes when everyone wants something warm and indulgent but not too complicated.

Gather Your Ingredients

• White wine: adds brightness and helps deglaze the pan to lift those caramelized onion bits choose a dry variety you enjoy drinking
• Salt: essential for seasoning that brings out all the rich flavors
• Unsalted butter at room temperature: gives a creamy texture to the base and helps with cooking the onions evenly
• Beef broth: adds a deep, savory backbone homemade or good quality store-bought works best
• Black pepper: freshly ground gives a mild heat and aroma
• Fresh minced thyme (or dried): adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs wonderfully with onions and cheese
• Olive oil: used to sauté onions extra virgin quality brings subtle fruitiness
• Gnocchi, fresh or frozen: the base of the dish fresh gnocchi gives the softest texture but frozen works fine
• One large sweet onion, thinly sliced: caramelizes into rich, golden strands that build the foundation of flavor
• French bread slices, day-old preferred: adds a toasty crunch on top after baking slightly stale bread holds up better when baked
• Shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese: Gruyere is preferred for its nutty, deep flavor that melts beautifully

How to Make It

Sauté the Onions:

Cook the thinly sliced sweet onion in olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and let them slowly caramelize for about 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweet. This step builds a deep flavor base be patient and resist turning up the heat to avoid burning.

Deglaze with White Wine:

Add the white wine to the caramelized onions and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. The wine helps lift those concentrated onion flavors and adds acidity that balances the richness.

Add Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in the beef broth add fresh minced thyme salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly.

Prepare the Gnocchi:

While the broth simmers cook the gnocchi according to package instructions if using frozen or just have fresh ready to layer. Usually, gnocchi are boiled until they float to the surface signaling they’re done.

Layer the Ingredients in a Baking Dish:

Place a layer of caramelized onion broth mixture in the bottom of a buttered baking dish. Next add the gnocchi evenly on top. Tear or cut the French bread slices and scatter them over the gnocchi layer.

Top with Cheese and Bake:

Sprinkle shredded Gruyere evenly over the top. Bake the whole dish in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for 30 to 45 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the bread topping is crisp.

Let Rest Before Serving:

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors settle and the bubbling stabilizes for easier serving.

Gruyere is by far my favorite ingredient here. Its rich, nutty flavor and incredible melting quality make the difference between a good baked dish and a crave-worthy one. I remember making this for a cozy gatherings with friends and watching how quietly everyone dug in—proof that comfort food can be simple yet unforgettable.

Flavor Boosters

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat cover loosely with foil and warm in the oven to keep the bread topping from getting too soggy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve textures.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness A glass of dry white wine or light red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors well Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a more complete meal

Creative Twists

French onion soup is traditionally French with roots dating back centuries as a humble peasant dish. Combining the flavors with Italian gnocchi marries two classic comfort foods into one indulgent bake that feels familiar yet fresh. In colder months this dish brings warmth and heartiness perfect for winter. In spring and summer lighten it up by using vegetable broth and reducing the cheese topping slightly. Adding fresh herbs like parsley brightens it for warmer days.

This simple baked French onion gnocchi combines hearty flavors and easy prep for an indulgent comfort meal perfect for any season.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi for this dish?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just be sure to thaw them slightly or follow package instructions before baking for even results.

→ What type of cheese is best for this gnocchi?

Gruyere cheese is recommended for its deep, nutty flavor, but Swiss cheese also works nicely to create a creamy, melted topping.

→ How can I make the onions sweeter?

Slowly caramelizing the onions in butter or olive oil over low heat enhances their natural sweetness and adds richness to the dish.

→ Is there a substitute for beef broth?

Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option, without compromising too much flavor.

→ What dish or occasion pairs well with baked gnocchi?

This hearty gnocchi pairs perfectly with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, making it suited for family dinners or small gatherings.