Name: Buttery Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 package Potato gnocchi (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 2 medium Yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme; 1/4 cup Dry white wine; 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar; 6 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon Extra black pepper (for garnishing)

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Introduction

Buttery Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère offers a rich, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This dish combines pillowy gnocchi, sweet golden onions, and creamy melted cheese for an indulgent experience that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

A close-up of a pan filled with small, plump gnocchi pieces that are golden brown on the edges, sitting in a creamy white sauce. Scattered on top are caramelized, glossy onions that have a deep golden hue, adding texture and color contrast. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled throughout, and finely grated cheese lightly dusts the dish. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, and part of a grey cloth is visible beside it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package potato gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, divided
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
6 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon extra black pepper (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch broiler-safe skillet over medium heat. Add half the gnocchi, cooking undisturbed until the bottoms are golden-brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a baking sheet and repeat with the remaining gnocchi.
Step 2: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, half of the fresh thyme, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for about 30 minutes, until the onions are deeply golden and soft.
Step 3: Pour in 1/4 cup dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Cook until the wine is nearly evaporated, about 1 minute. Stir in 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
Step 4: Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet with the caramelized onions, mixing gently to combine and spreading evenly. Sprinkle 6 ounces of shredded Gruyère cheese on top.
Step 5: Place the skillet under the broiler for 4 to 6 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining fresh thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh gnocchi for the best texture; frozen gnocchi works well too but may require slightly longer cooking.
Be patient when caramelizing onions—30 minutes over medium heat ensures sweetness and a deep golden color.
Substitute Gruyère with fontina or aged cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Add herbs like rosemary or sage alongside thyme for an aromatic twist.
For a vegan version, replace butter with olive oil and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Enhance the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or crumbled Italian sausage.
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture contrast.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. To freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a pan filled with about three layers of food. The bottom layer is a creamy white sauce with a smooth texture, partly visible around the edges. On top of the sauce is a layer of plump, ridged, golden-yellow gnocchi browned on fewer than half of their sides, giving them a slightly crispy look. Scattered on and between the gnocchi are small, uneven pieces of browned, caramelized onions with a glossy look. Tiny green herb leaves are sprinkled lightly over the dish, adding a touch of color. The whole dish is topped with a fine dusting of grated white cheese and a few cracks of black pepper. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with a gray cloth partially visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I choose the right onions for caramelizing?

Yellow onions are ideal as they have higher sugar content which caramelizes beautifully, giving a deep golden color and rich sweetness. Avoid onions with blemishes for best results.

Can I freeze Buttery Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère?

Yes! Freeze the assembled dish in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly. It keeps well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.