gnocchi soup with onions

French Onion Gnocchi Soup combines the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with the delightful texture of gnocchi. You sauté onions until they're caramelized, then add garlic and thyme for depth. Mixing in beef broth creates a comforting base. As you cook gnocchi, it floats to the top, adding heartiness. Topped with Gruyère cheese and broiled to perfection, this dish will warm you up on chilly nights. Interested in learning how to make it?

History

study of past events

French onion soup, which has its roots in simple, rustic cooking, dates back to at least the 18th century in France.

This classic dish features caramelized onions simmered in rich beef broth, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile. Traditionally topped with a crust of bread and Gruyère cheese, it showcases the delightful combination of savory and cheesy goodness.

Over time, the history of French onion soup evolved, gaining popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, where it became a staple in French bistros.

Its comforting nature and hearty ingredients have made it beloved in both French and international cuisine, proving that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary flavors.

Recipe

cooking instructions for meal

Ingredients:

  • 4 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 pound gnocchi
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, cooking them slowly until they become deep golden brown, which may take 25-50 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Pour in the beef broth, bringing it to a simmer.

Once simmering, add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 5 minutes.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Transfer the soup to oven-safe bowls, top with shredded Gruyère cheese, and place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Extra Tips:

To achieve the best flavor, take your time when caramelizing the onions—don't rush this step, as the deep browning is key to a rich soup.

If you want to add even more depth to the flavor, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine after the onions are caramelized.

Additionally, feel free to customize your soup with herbs like thyme or bay leaf for added aroma.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use a cheese alternative if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Cooking Steps

cooking process in detail

To make your French Onion Gnocchi Soup, you'll start by sautéing onions until they're beautifully caramelized.

Next, you'll add garlic and fresh thyme, followed by broth for a rich flavor.

Finally, stir in the gnocchi and cheese, then garnish with fresh herbs for a finishing touch.

Step 1. Sauté Onions Until Caramelized

caramelize onions through saut ing

As you melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, you're setting the stage for the rich flavors to come.

Add thinly sliced yellow onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them uncovered for about 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to guarantee they caramelize evenly.

As they soften, the onions will transform from sharp and pungent to sweet and savory. Near the end of the cooking process, stir in a bit of brown sugar to enhance their sweetness and help achieve that deep golden color.

Keep a close eye on them, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning. The goal is perfectly caramelized onions—soft, deeply golden brown, and bursting with flavor, essential for your soup.

Step 2. Add Garlic and Thyme

add garlic and thyme

Next, add minced garlic to the pot after the onions have caramelized for about 25 minutes.

Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant, to enhance the flavor of your soup.

Then, incorporate approximately 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme into the mix.

This aromatic herb complements the caramelized onions perfectly and adds depth to the seasoning.

Make sure to stir the garlic and thyme into the onions thoroughly, allowing their flavors to meld together.

Adding thyme towards the end preserves its fresh aroma, ensuring your soup bursts with flavor.

Reserve a bit of thyme for garnishing before serving, making your delicious French Onion Gnocchi Soup even more inviting!

Step 3. Add Broth and Simmer

add broth then simmer

Once the onions are perfectly caramelized and infused with garlic and thyme, add 2 tablespoons of flour to the pot, stirring for about a minute until everything's well combined.

Next, pour in 1 cup of dry white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits, and let it simmer until the liquid is nearly evaporated, about 5 minutes.

Now, add broth and simmer by pouring in 6 cups of low-sodium beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for approximately 30 minutes, melding the flavors together.

Before serving, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4. Stir in Gnocchi and Cheese

combine gnocchi with cheese

Gently stir in the gnocchi, allowing them to cook in the simmering soup until they float to the top—this usually takes about 5 minutes, signaling they're perfectly done.

Before moving on, make sure to remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves for ideal flavor.

Next, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, ensuring an even distribution of gnocchi in each serving.

Generously top each bowl with a mix of Gruyere and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, melty layer.

Finally, place the bowls under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, giving your French Onion Gnocchi Soup that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy every comforting bite!

Step 5. Garnish With Fresh Herbs

garnish dish with herbs

As you prepare to serve your French Onion Gnocchi Soup, adding fresh herbs can elevate the dish's flavor and appearance.

Start by sprinkling fresh thyme on top just before serving; it enhances the aromatic profile and adds a splash of color. You can also use chopped parsley for a vibrant contrast against the rich soup.

For an indulgent touch, don't forget to add extra grated Gruyère cheese—it brings out the cheesy goodness.

For a revitalizing pop, garnish with thinly sliced green onions or chives, brightening both the look and taste of your dish.

Remember to use these herbs sparingly, allowing the caramelized onions and broth to shine while enhancing the overall presentation.

Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

conclusion and reflections shared

French Onion Gnocchi Soup offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, making it a must-try for anyone craving comfort food during chilly months.

This comforting recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef broth with tender gnocchi, creating a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out.

With just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you can serve this delicious soup to about six people—perfect for gatherings.

Don't forget the generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese broiled to bubbly perfection; it adds a rich, creamy texture that elevates the entire experience.

You'll love how this gnocchi soup brings a sense of cozy nostalgia while being uniquely satisfying. Enjoy every spoonful!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi for the Soup?

Absolutely, you can use store-bought gnocchi in your dish! It saves time and still delivers great flavor.

Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and add it to your soup towards the end to prevent it from getting too soft.

You'll find that the gnocchi absorbs the flavors beautifully while maintaining its texture.

What Types of Cheese Are Best for Topping?

When it comes to topping your dish with cheese, you can't go wrong with classic choices like Gruyère or Swiss. They melt beautifully and add a rich, nutty flavor.

If you want a little more tang, consider using aged cheddar or provolone. For a unique twist, try crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese.

Just remember to sprinkle it generously and let it melt for that perfect, gooey finish that'll elevate your meal!

How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian-Friendly?

To make any soup vegetarian-friendly, start by swapping out meat-based broths for vegetable stock.

You can enhance flavors by adding umami-rich ingredients like miso paste or mushrooms.

Don't forget to load up on fresh herbs and spices to elevate the taste.

If you're worried about losing depth, consider caramelizing onions longer for a richer flavor.

This way, you'll create a satisfying, hearty soup that everyone will love.

Enjoy your cooking!

Can I Freeze Leftovers of This Soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this soup!

Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, but it'll still taste delicious! Enjoy your leftovers!

What Wine Pairs Well With French Onion Gnocchi Soup?

When you think about the perfect wine pairing, it's like searching for the holy grail of flavor!

For a dish like this, you can't go wrong with a rich, full-bodied red, like a Merlot or a Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines bring out the savory goodness without overpowering your taste buds.

If you prefer white, a smooth Chardonnay works wonders too!

Just imagine the delightful taste explosion that awaits you with every sip!

You May Also Like

Filet Mignon With Blue Cheese Butter

Best enjoyed hot off the skillet, filet mignon with blue cheese butter promises a decadent experience that will leave you craving more. Discover the secrets behind this luxurious dish!

Mini Berry Nutella Heart Pies for Your Valentine

Satisfy your sweet tooth this Valentine’s Day with Mini Berry Nutella Heart Pies that are easy to make and irresistibly delicious—find out how to create these treats!

Limoncello Spritz

Keen to discover the refreshing Limoncello Spritz cocktail? Uncover its vibrant flavors and delightful history that will elevate your summer gatherings!

Lover’S French Onion Soup

Treat your loved one to a romantic bowl of Lover’s French Onion Soup, where rich flavors and heart-shaped croutons create an unforgettable experience. Discover more!