Creamy French Onion Gnocchi Bake with Gruyère and Parmesan

Creamy French onion gnocchi bake is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and tender gnocchi, all topped with gooey cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a twist on the classic French onion soup.

Ingredients

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the cooked gnocchi, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 55 minutes to prepare and cook, including 10 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for additional flavor.
• Cheese Substitutes: Swap Gruyère for other melting cheeses such as mozzarella or fontina.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave until hot.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
   Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly without thawing. Just cook them according to package instructions.
2. How do I know when the onions are caramelized?
   They should be golden brown and sweet in flavor, taking about 20 minutes of cooking over medium heat.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
   A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this creamy bake.
5. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Use gluten-free gnocchi to make the dish gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, but the texture may change after freezing and reheating.
7. What if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?
   You can substitute it with other melting cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella.
8. Can I use a different type of onion?
   Yes, you can use yellow, white, or sweet onions for different flavor profiles.
9. Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
   You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter version.
10. How do I add extra flavor?
    Consider adding a splash of white wine to the onion mixture for added depth.

Conclusion

Creamy French onion gnocchi bake is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional French onion soup with the heartiness of gnocchi. This rich and creamy bake is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the melty cheese and comforting flavors that make this dish a standout!

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