When the winter chill sets in, nothing beats a warm, cozy meal. You deserve a dinner that feels like a big hug in a bowl. This High Protein French Onion Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food for your family. It brings those classic, rich flavors to your table without any stress.
It is easy to get stuck in a dinner rut during the colder months. You want something filling but also healthy and fresh. This recipe delivers a nutritious twist on a French classic. It is perfect for those dark evenings when you need something special.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a lifesaver for busy winter weeknights. It combines the deep flavor of caramelized onions with pillowy gnocchi. You get all the comfort of soup in a filling main course. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
The best part is the secret protein boost from blended cottage cheese. It creates a creamy, luscious sauce without heavy cream. This makes it a great choice for a healthy reset. You get to enjoy indulgence while staying on track with your goals.
Simple Cooking Method
Do not let the caramelized onions intimidate you. They mostly just need a little time and a gentle stir. Once the onions are golden, the rest comes together quickly. Even beginner cooks can master this impressive meal easily.
Using pre-cooked chicken is a fantastic time-saving shortcut for you. It ensures dinner is on the table in under an hour. You will love how simple and doable this gourmet meal feels. It is truly a stress-free way to feed your loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Use seasonal yellow onions for the best natural sweetness.
- 16 oz high-protein gnocchi (chickpea or ricotta-based)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef bone broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended smooth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized.
- Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar and beef bone broth, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in the dried thyme and shredded chicken, heating through.
- In a separate pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float.
- Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the onion mixture.
- Stir in the blended cottage cheese to create a creamy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
- Top the skillet with shredded Gruyère cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm while the cheese is still stretchy and bubbly. It looks beautiful served straight from your favorite cast-iron skillet. Pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
For a true winter experience, serve with a piece of crusty bread. Use it to scoop up every last bit of that savory onion sauce. Set the table, dim the lights, and enjoy a cozy evening. Your family will keep coming back for seconds.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. This recipe is excellent for meal prep lunches the next day. The flavors actually deepen and get better over time.
To reheat, use the oven or a skillet for best results. A 350°F oven for 10 minutes will keep the cheese melty. If using a microwave, add a splash of broth first. This keeps the gnocchi tender and delicious for your lunch.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Don’t rush the onions because slow cooking unlocks their sweetness.
- Use a blender to make the cottage cheese completely smooth first.
- Deglaze the pan thoroughly to capture all the flavorful browned bits.
- Choose a high-quality Gruyère for the most authentic savory flavor.
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save precious time on busy weeknights.
- Watch the broiler closely so the cheese does not burn.
- Garnish with fresh thyme for a beautiful, herb-filled finish.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian winter delight.
- Use vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter, meat-free base.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach at the end for extra greens.
- Try fontina cheese if you want an even creamier melt.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Common Questions
Can I taste the cottage cheese?
Not at all once it is blended and mixed. It simply adds a wonderful creamy texture and protein. It acts just like a rich cream sauce.
What if I cannot find high-protein gnocchi?
Standard potato gnocchi will work just as well in this recipe. The chicken and cottage cheese still provide plenty of protein. It will still be a satisfying meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can caramelize the onions a day in advance to save time. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready. This makes the final cooking process much faster.
I hope this High Protein French Onion Gnocchi brings warmth to your home this winter. It is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 16 oz high -protein gnocchi (chickpea or ricotta-based)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef bone broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup low -fat cottage cheese, blended smooth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized.
- Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar and beef bone broth, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in the dried thyme and shredded chicken, heating through.
- In a separate pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float.
- Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the onion mixture.
- Stir in the blended cottage cheese to create a creamy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
- Top the skillet with shredded Gruyère cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
