Mouthwatering Baked French Onion Gnocchi

Before the first fork even touches the plate, Baked French Onion Gnocchi announces itself. The aroma alone — deeply caramelized onions, bubbling cheese, rich broth, and toasted herbs — fills the room with the unmistakable scent of comfort. This is not a quiet dish. This is the kind of recipe that makes guests wander into the kitchen asking, “What is that?”

Inspired by classic French onion soup and transformed into a hearty, oven-baked gnocchi casserole, this dish is everything you want for gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or indulgent weekends. Soft pillowy gnocchi soak up the savory onion broth, while layers of cheese melt into a golden, irresistible crust. Each bite balances sweetness from slow-cooked onions with the deep umami of beef broth and the richness of cheese.

This recipe was designed for sharing, celebrating, and impressing without stress. It looks elegant, tastes luxurious, yet uses simple pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or building a cozy menu for family night, this dish earns its place at the center of the table.

The Soul of French Onion Flavor

At the heart of this recipe lies one thing: time. French onion flavor cannot be rushed. The onions are slowly cooked until deeply golden and jammy, releasing their natural sugars and building complexity layer by layer. This step transforms a humble vegetable into something rich, savory, and unforgettable.

Unlike traditional French onion soup, this recipe takes that iconic flavor base and binds it to soft gnocchi — creating a baked dish that’s comforting, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to aid caramelization)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ lbs shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30–40 minutes until deeply caramelized.
4. Stir in garlic, thyme, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Deglaze the pan with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up browned bits.
6. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Add gnocchi and toss to coat evenly.
8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
9. Sprinkle Gruyère, mozzarella, and parmesan evenly over the top.
10. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
11. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Why This Dish Is Perfect for Parties

This baked gnocchi was built with gatherings in mind. It can be prepared ahead of time, reheats beautifully, and stays creamy even after cooling slightly — making it ideal for buffet-style serving. The flavors deepen as it rests, and the cheese crust remains satisfyingly crisp.

Guests don’t need explanations. One spoonful sells it.

Cheese Selection Matters

• Gruyère delivers nutty, authentic French onion flavor
• Mozzarella adds that irresistible stretch
• Parmesan sharpens the dish and balances the cream

This trio creates the perfect melt and depth.

Customization Ideas

• Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness
• Stir in cooked chicken or beef for a heartier main
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
• Finish with crispy fried onions for extra crunch

Mouthwatering Baked French Onion Gnocchi

A rich and creamy baked gnocchi casserole inspired by classic French onion soup, loaded with caramelized onions and melted cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 minute min

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Main Dish

Cuisine: Comfort Food, French-Inspired

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs yellow onions thinly sliced
• 1.5 lbs potato gnocchi
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Caramelize onions slowly until golden and sweet.
2. Deglaze with broth, add cream and seasonings.
3. Mix with gnocchi, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Notes

Best served hot and fresh from the oven.