Do Share Recipe

French Onion Skillet Gnocchi Recipe | Cheesy & Savory Delight

I made this French Onion Skillet Gnocchi Recipe on a cozy evening when I wanted something comforting but not complicated. The smell of slowly caramelized onions filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. I love how this recipe turns simple pantry ingredients into a dish that feels restaurant-worthy.

The gnocchi soak up all that rich, savory onion flavor, and the melted cheese on top is pure comfort. After making it once, I found myself craving it again and again, especially on busy weeknights. You can also enjoy similar flavors with a Grilled Steak Elote Tacos Recipe if you want a hearty twist on a quick meal.

Ingredients

Olive oil – 2 tablespoons: Helps caramelize the onions evenly without burning and adds a smooth base flavor.
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and classic French onion depth while allowing better salt control.
Yellow onions – 3 large, thinly sliced: Best choice for caramelizing because they turn sweet and golden instead of sharp.
Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon (plus more to taste): Draws moisture from onions, helping them soften and brown properly.
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced: Fresh garlic boosts aroma and balances the sweetness of the onions.
Fresh thyme leaves – 1 teaspoon: Adds earthy, slightly floral notes that pair beautifully with caramelized onions.
Beef broth – 1 cup: Creates that signature French onion soup-style savory flavor; low-sodium works best.
Shelf-stable potato gnocchi – 1 pound: Holds its shape well and cooks perfectly in the skillet without turning mushy.
Gruyère cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated: Melts smoothly and delivers nutty, savory richness; freshly grated is best.
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Note: This ingredient quantity makes approximately 4 servings.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth while keeping all other ingredients the same for a meat-free version.
Dairy-free version: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free melting cheese alternative; the texture will stay creamy with a slightly lighter flavor.
Extra protein add-in: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or sautéed mushrooms to make the dish more filling and hearty. You might even enjoy experimenting with a Korean Steak Tacos Recipe for another protein-packed option.
Cheesy upgrade: Add a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella or Swiss cheese for extra meltiness and stretch.
Deeper flavor twist: Splash in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or dry white wine while caramelizing the onions to enhance richness.
Herb swap: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a more robust, earthy flavor profile.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together faster than you’d expect for something so flavorful.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – Used for caramelizing onions and cooking the gnocchi evenly.
Wooden spoon – Helps stir onions gently without scraping the pan.
Sharp knife – Essential for slicing onions thin and evenly.
Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes fresher.

How to Make French Onion Skillet Gnocchi Recipe?

This recipe is all about layering flavor in one pan, making cleanup easy and cooking enjoyable.

Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, then cook slowly, stirring often. I let them soften and turn golden brown, which takes patience but builds incredible flavor.

Add Aromatics

Once the onions are deeply caramelized, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. This step enhances the aroma and adds depth without overpowering the onions.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are packed with flavor and enrich the sauce. Let the broth simmer gently for a few minutes.

Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi directly into the skillet, stirring to coat them in the onion mixture. Let them cook uncovered, absorbing the broth and becoming tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle the grated Gruyère evenly over the gnocchi. Cover the skillet briefly so the cheese melts completely. Finish with black pepper and a few extra thyme leaves if you like.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe a few times, I picked up some small tricks that make a big difference.

I always take my time with the onions; rushing them never gives the same sweetness.
I grate the cheese right before adding it, which helps it melt smoothly.
I taste before serving and adjust salt carefully, since the broth already adds seasoning.
I like using a heavy-bottom skillet because it cooks everything more evenly.

How to Serve French Onion Skillet Gnocchi Recipe?

This dish looks beautiful straight from the skillet, making it perfect for casual dinners. I like serving it hot with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For an extra touch, serve it alongside crusty bread to scoop up the cheesy onion sauce.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is hearty and satisfying, making it a complete meal.

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: About 15 grams per serving
Carbohydrates: Around 55 grams per serving
Fat: Roughly 18 grams per serving

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is best fresh, but it stores surprisingly well.

Make Ahead:
You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, continue with the recipe to save time.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Stir slowly to keep the gnocchi tender.

Freezing:
Freezing is not ideal because the texture of gnocchi can change, but it can be done if necessary for up to 1 month.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this French onion skillet gnocchi has become one of my favorites.

It’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more enjoyment.
The flavors are rich and comforting, inspired by classic French onion soup.
It’s versatile and easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
The recipe feels special enough for guests but simple enough for weeknights.

If you love cozy, cheesy meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen, this French onion skillet gnocchi recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Ben Carraoli