Ah, French Onion Gnocchi Soup! 🥣 This delightful combination of flavors is one of my absolute favorite comfort foods. From the moment the sweet, caramelized onions fill the kitchen with their aromatic perfume, I just know I’m in for a treat. The way the pillowy gnocchi absorb all that delicious broth is simply heavenly. The first time I made this recipe was on a cold rainy evening, and it warmed not only my stomach but also my heart. It has since become a go-to for gatherings with friends and family, where it’s served in big bowls that just beckon to be devoured!
Honestly, what makes this recipe unique is how it marries the classic French onion soup with the heartiness of gnocchi. It feels both elegant and comforting at the same time — perfect for impressing guests or simply curling up on the couch in your pajamas! So, let’s dive right into making this delectable dish that’s perfect for any occasion (or just because you deserve it).
What’s in French Onion Gnocchi Soup?
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing, I always use extra virgin olive oil for its lovely flavor and health benefits.
Unsalted Butter: The unsalted kind allows me to control the saltiness of the dish. Butter is crucial for that creamy, smooth texture in the soup.
Onions: The star of the show! For this soup, I like using large yellow onions as they caramelize beautifully and add that signature sweetness.
Garlic: Because who can say no to garlic? Freshly minced, of course! It brings an aromatic punch that elevates the whole dish.
Dried Thyme: Adds a lovely herbaceous note that complements the sweetness of the onions.
Sugar: A secret ingredient to enhance the caramelization of the onions — just a touch makes a big difference!
Low-Sodium Beef or Vegetable Broth: Homemade is always a treat, but I love having a quality store-bought option on hand for convenience.
Soy Sauce: Just a splash to deepen the savory flavor of the broth.
Gnocchi: You can go with homemade or store-bought! I like to use potato gnocchi for that fluffy texture.
Fresh Parsley: This garnish adds a bright pop of color and a bit of freshness to the soup.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle right before serving takes this soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Is French Onion Gnocchi Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup can be quite nourishing without compromising on flavor.
Onions: Packed with antioxidants, they also support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties. Hello, health benefits!
Gnocchi: While they can be higher in carbs, they also provide energy. Plus, you can opt for whole wheat or gluten-free variants if that’s your jam.
Broth: Using low-sodium broth keeps the soup lighter and allows you to manage your sodium intake better. Opt for vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter vegetarian version.
That being said, it’s wise to enjoy in moderation if you’re watching over your carb intake. As with all good things, balance is key!
Ingredients List
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 6 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
*Serves: Approximately 4-6 hearty bowls, perfect for sharing or leftovers (if you’re lucky!).*
How to Make French Onion Gnocchi Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and cook gently. Stir occasionally until they’re beautifully caramelized, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Patience is key!
2. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and sugar to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant and your kitchen smells divine.
3. Pour in the broth of your choice and the soy sauce; bring the mixture to a bubbling boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Toss in the gnocchi to the soup and cook according to the package instructions. Generally, this is around 2-3 minutes until they float to the top, signaling they’re ready to party!
5. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and you’re almost there!
6. Serve the soup hot, garnishing with fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch. Enjoy every spoonful!
Gnocchi Goodness: Tips and Tricks!
– For an even richer flavor, consider deglazing the pot after caramelizing the onions with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.
– If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you could substitute with small pasta like ditalini or orzo — it won’t be the same, but still delicious!
– Leftovers! You can store any uneaten soup in an airtight container in the fridge. Just note that the gnocchi might soak up more broth over time, so you may need to add a splash of water or more broth when reheating.
Honestly, I can’t wait for you all to try this French Onion Gnocchi Soup. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! If you do end up making it, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Hit me with your questions, your variations, or even your special moments that this soup might inspire! Happy cooking!
