Dinner

Simple Baked French Onion Gnocchi Recipe

ByHarry Bern February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Introduction

Simple Baked French Onion Gnocchi is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines tender gnocchi with rich caramelized onions and savory broth. Baked to bubbly perfection with a golden cheese topping, it’s perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare.

This image shows a white bowl filled with a hot baked dish of browned, crispy, golden gnocchi on top with melted, stretchy cheese underneath. The cheese is melting and stringing from a spoon lifting some gnocchi out, revealing a layer of thick brown sauce or gravy beneath the cheese. There are small green herb sprigs, possibly thyme, both on top of the cheese and surrounding the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup white wine
Salt
1 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
2 cups beef broth
Pepper
1 tbsp fresh minced thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
1 large sweet onion (thinly sliced)
8-10 slices French bread (day-old works best)
1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese (Gruyere preferred for deeper flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the olive oil and unsalted butter together. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes. Take your time here for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Step 2: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the thyme and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Add the gnocchi and stir occasionally over medium heat until tender and the sauce has thickened and reduced, about 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Season the gnocchi mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer everything into a greased medium baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Top the gnocchi with shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese.
Step 6: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned and the dish is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Step 7: Serve warm with French bread slices on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream before baking.
Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth to make a lighter version.
Use day-old French bread for the best dipping texture.
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized garlic for additional depth of flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the cheese’s bubbly texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the gnocchi from getting soggy.

How to Serve

A white round bowl filled with a baked dish showing three layers: the bottom layer is dark brown caramelized onions, the middle layer is golden-brown tater tots embedded throughout, and the top layer is melted creamy cheese, slightly browned in spots. Fresh green herb sprigs are placed in the center for garnish. To the upper right of the bowl, three toasted slices of white bread are arranged, showing a golden brown crust and airy texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just cook it straight from frozen when adding to the sauce—no need to thaw.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Gruyere or Swiss cheese?

Other good melting cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even mild cheddar can be used, though they will slightly change the flavor profile.

Harry Bern