This French onion gnocchi bake brings together the cozy richness of caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and melty cheese—all swirled into tender gnocchi for a comforting twist on French onion soup. Don’t forget the toasty bread for dipping!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with cozy French onion soup flavor
Ultra cheesy and comforting
Perfect cold-weather dinner or indulgent side
Comes together in just one skillet + one baking dish
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sweet onions – caramelized low and slow for deep flavor
Gnocchi – soft potato dumplings that soak up the sauce
Beef broth – for that savory, umami-rich base
White wine – adds acidity and depth
Gruyère or Swiss cheese – melty and golden when baked
French bread – toasted for perfect dipping
Thyme + butter + olive oil – for layers of savory richness
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice onions evenly for even caramelization
Let onions cook slowly—don’t rush!
Use fresh thyme for max flavor
Toast the bread ahead so it’s ready to dip into the bubbling cheese
How to Make French Onion Gnocchi
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium.
Add thinly sliced onions and stir occasionally for about 20 minutes until deeply golden and soft.
Step 2: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in white wine and scrape up any browned bits.
Add minced thyme and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Stir gnocchi into the broth.
Let simmer for 5–10 minutes until gnocchi is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake with Cheese
Transfer everything to a greased medium baking dish.
Top with shredded cheese.
Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Toast and Serve
Serve with slices of toasted French bread for scooping up all that cheesy goodness.
What to Serve It With
Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables or Brussels sprouts
A bold red wine like cabernet sauvignon
Variations / Substitutions
Swap vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
Try provolone or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor
Use store-bought caramelized onions to save time
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to keep the top crisp
Not freezer-friendly due to texture changes in gnocchi
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the simmering time.
Is there a white wine substitute?
Use a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the caramelized onions and gnocchi base in advance and bake when ready.
Do I need to toast the bread?
Toasting makes it sturdy for dipping, but soft bread works too.
What other cheese can I use?
Fontina, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar will all melt beautifully.
Is this a side or a main?
It’s hearty enough to be a main but also perfect as a luxurious side dish.
Final Thoughts
This cozy French onion gnocchi bake is everything we love about the iconic soup—with a cheesy, pasta-filled upgrade.
Bake it up for your next comfort-food craving and don’t forget the bread!
French Onion Gnocchi Bake
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large sweet onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 lb gnocchi
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 8 –10 slices French bread toasted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet.
- Add onions and cook until caramelized (about 20 min).
- Add wine to deglaze. Stir in thyme and beef broth.
- Add gnocchi and simmer until tender and sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to baking dish. Top with cheese.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/french-onion-gnocchi-bake/
Notes
- Onion Tip: Go low and slow for deeply caramelized flavor—don’t rush the onions!
- Broth Options: Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Swiss, Gruyère, or even provolone all melt beautifully here.
- Bread Swap: Try garlic bread or crostini instead of plain toast.
