Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 2 medium potatoes, boiled and peeled; 1 egg, beaten; Salt to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Planning

When I first tried making truffle gnocchi for a special dinner, I was surprised at how simple yet impressive they turned out. The combination of creamy truffle sauce and soft, pillowy gnocchi is a match made in heaven. I love serving this dish on Valentine’s Day because it feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet and indulgent, perfect for celebrating love or simply treating yourself.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:03:36.288Z

Creating a dish like truffle gnocchi for dinner was an adventure that I truly enjoyed. It was my first time working with truffle oil, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was out of this world. As I rolled out the gnocchi dough, I couldn't help but feel excited about how the final dish would come together.

I learned that the key to achieving that creamy texture lies in properly incorporating the cream and truffle oil without overcooking the sauce. This way, you get a rich flavor that beautifully coats the gnocchi. Trust me, this is a dish that will impress anyone at your table!

        Why You Will Love This Dish
        Luxurious truffle flavor that elevates the meal
Soft, velvety gnocchi that melt in your mouth
Perfectly paired with a light salad or wine for a romantic dinner

      

Mastering Gnocchi

The key to achieving perfect gnocchi lies in the texture of the potatoes. Ideally, use starchy potatoes like Russets, as they create a light gnocchi that isn't dense. After boiling, let the potatoes cool slightly before peeling to prevent them from becoming gummy. When mashing, avoid using a food processor, as it can overwork the starch and lead to a chewy texture. Hand-mashing ensures a fluffy, light consistency that makes the gnocchi melt in your mouth.

When mixing the dough, resist the urge to add too much flour, as this will lead to heavier gnocchi. Start with the 2 cups of flour and add more only if absolutely necessary. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If the dough feels too wet, dust your work surface with flour and knead gently. Remember, the goal is to maintain a delicate balance between moisture and structure for the best bite.

Enhancing the Truffle Sauce

The truffle oil is the star of the sauce, so choosing a high-quality oil can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. A good truffle oil should have an aromatic scent and rich, earthy flavor. If you’re looking for a more robust flavor, consider adding finely chopped truffles or using a combination of different oils. Just a tablespoon of truffle oil can elevate the dish without overpowering the creaminess from the heavy cream.

While preparing the sauce, keep the heat at medium to avoid boiling the cream, which can cause it to separate and curdle. Gently simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once you add the Parmesan, stir continuously until it melts into the sauce for a silky, glossy finish. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a truly romantic touch, serve your truffle gnocchi with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery bite of the arugula complements the creamy sauce without overpowering the truffle flavor. Additionally, a crisp, chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the luxurious experience and refreshes the palate between bites.

If you're looking to scale this dish up for a gathering, simply double the gnocchi and sauce recipes. Make the gnocchi in batches to ensure even cooking. You can freeze any excess gnocchi by arranging them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups of all-purpose flour
2 medium potatoes, boiled and peeled
1 egg, beaten
Salt to taste

For the Truffle Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons truffle oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Add the flour, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface until it is smooth.

Form the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Optional: use a fork to create ridges on each piece, which will help hold the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and truffle oil. Stir until heated through. Add Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi, cooking until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and add directly to the sauce.

Serve

Toss the gnocchi gently in the truffle sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. They pair beautifully with truffles!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're searching for a gluten-free version of this dish, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be cautious with the measurements, as some gluten-free flours absorb more moisture. Start with the same amount as indicated and adjust as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.

For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with a full-fat coconut cream and the Parmesan with a vegan alternative. However, be aware that the flavor profile may shift slightly; using nutritional yeast can help mimic the cheesiness in the dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover gnocchi, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, toss them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat, which allows them to warm through while developing a slightly crispy exterior.

For freezing, cooked gnocchi can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen by boiling them, but add an extra 1-2 minutes to the cooking time. The sauce can also be made in advance and refrigerated; simply reheat gently before combining with the gnocchi.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your gnocchi becomes too heavy or dense, check how you handled the potatoes and the dough. Ensuring the potatoes are thoroughly drained and cooled before mixing is crucial, as excess moisture can lead to a gummier texture. Always remember that less flour is more when forming your dough.

For the truffle sauce, if it becomes too thick, you can easily adjust it by incorporating a bit of reserved pasta water or stock to reach your desired creaminess. If you've added too much truffle oil, balance it out with more cream and cheese; it may require a bit of tasting and adjusting to get it just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi in advance and freeze them. Just boil them directly from frozen when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

If you don't have truffle oil, try using a mix of olive oil and a bit of garlic for flavor, though it won't be the same.

→ Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this truffle gnocchi recipe is vegetarian, as it contains no meat.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, but keep in mind it may change the texture slightly.