Baked French Onion Gnocchi

This baked French onion gnocchi is a delightful twist on the classic soup! With tender gnocchi nestled in a savory caramelized onion beef broth and topped with rich cheese, this dish is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. Its unique combination of flavors makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a comforting dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The deep, rich taste of caramelized onions combined with beef broth creates a dish that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it pairs beautifully with salads or roasted vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, everyone will love this hearty meal.
• Cheesy Goodness: A generous layer of melted cheese on top adds indulgent creaminess to every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this baked French onion gnocchi requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Medium greased baking dish
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for caramelizing onions evenly and efficiently while providing ample space for simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping to deglaze the pan effectively.
• Medium greased baking dish: Ensures the gnocchi bake evenly and makes serving easy.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 lb gnocchi
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded swiss or gruyere cheese
• 8-10 slices French bread, toasted

How to Make Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the cheese to melt perfectly when you bake the gnocchi.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat.
– Add the sliced sweet onion.
– Stir occasionally until they turn a deep caramelized color, about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Once the onions are caramelized:
– Pour in 1/4 cup of white apple vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with your wooden spoon.
– Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh minced thyme and 2 cups of beef broth.
– Bring this mixture to a simmer before adding in the gnocchi.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add 1 lb of gnocchi, stirring occasionally over medium heat until they are tender and the sauce has thickened. This should take about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before moving on.

Step 5: Bake It

Transfer the mixture into a medium greased baking dish. Top generously with 1 cup of shredded swiss or gruyere cheese.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Serve your baked French onion gnocchi hot, accompanied by toasted slices of French bread for dipping. Enjoy this hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy!

How to Serve Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Baked French onion gnocchi is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herb Garnish

• Use freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for added freshness and color.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well, balancing the richness of the gnocchi.

Served with Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread complements the dish perfectly, providing an extra crunch and flavor for dipping.

As a Main Course

• This baked French onion gnocchi can stand alone as a filling main course, ideal for cozy dinners.

How to Perfect Baked French Onion Gnocchi

To make sure your baked French onion gnocchi turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality cheese and broth will elevate the flavors in your dish.

• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time caramelizing the onions; this step is crucial for developing deep flavors.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking to get the right balance of flavors.

• Bake Until Golden: Ensure the cheese is golden brown before removing from the oven for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Baked French onion gnocchi pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender make a colorful addition.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green option that complements the richness of the gnocchi.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess, perfect for contrasting the creamy texture of gnocchi.

4. Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice enhances your meal with vibrant flavors.

5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a refreshing bite before enjoying the main dish.

6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the comfort food experience of baked gnocchi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your Baked French Onion Gnocchi experience. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Not caramelizing the onions enough: Caramelization adds depth of flavor. Ensure you cook the onions until they are golden brown and sweet.
• Using the wrong type of broth: Always opt for a rich beef broth. This is crucial for achieving that classic French onion flavor.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi before baking. They should be tender but not mushy to maintain texture after baking.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a well-balanced flavor.
• Forgetting to deglaze the pan: Deglazing with vinegar is essential. It lifts the flavorful bits stuck to the pan, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Baked French Onion Gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked French Onion Gnocchi

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Baked French Onion Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked French Onion Gnocchi that may help you enjoy this dish even more.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well and saves time. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best results.

What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth if you prefer a lighter taste while still keeping it delicious.

How do I customize my Baked French Onion Gnocchi?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor variations.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! While Swiss and Gruyère are traditional, you might also enjoy mozzarella or provolone as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Baked French Onion Gnocchi offers a warm, hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try and enjoy this delightful twist on classic comfort food.

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Baked French Onion Gnocchi

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in this comforting Baked French Onion Gnocchi, a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup! Tender gnocchi are baked in a savory caramelized onion and beef broth, topped with a generous layer of gooey cheese that melts to perfection. This dish is ideal for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, offering a rich flavor profile that warms the soul. Serve it with toasted bread for dipping and enjoy a satisfying meal that combines ease of preparation with gourmet appeal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white apple vinegar
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized (about 20 minutes), stirring occasionally.
3. Deglaze the pan with white apple vinegar, scraping up any browned bits, then stir in thyme and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add gnocchi to the mixture and cook for about 5-10 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with toasted French bread on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 45mg