Romantic Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered; 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 egg; Salt, to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon truffle oil; Freshly grated parmesan cheese, for serving; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Festive Recipes

I recently made Romantic Truffle Gnocchi for a special dinner, and it truly transformed an ordinary evening into a luxurious experience. The combination of tender gnocchi with the earthy flavor of truffles is simply divine! Each bite melts in the mouth, leaving a rich, aromatic aftertaste that pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan. Plus, it's a dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for impressing someone without spending hours in the kitchen. The romance is in the flavor and simplicity, and I can't wait to share this experience with you.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:57:35.015Z

Making Romantic Truffle Gnocchi was a delightful experience. I started by making the gnocchi from scratch, using fresh potatoes, which added a light and fluffy texture. The addition of truffle oil at the end elevated the dish, making it reminiscent of fine dining. It's a beautiful synergy of flavors that brings comfort while still feeling elegant.

What really sets this dish apart is the balance between the creamy sauce and the earthy truffle notes. A hint of freshly grated parmesan rounds out the flavors perfectly. I found that serving it with a fresh arugula salad adds a nice peppery contrast to the richness, making for a complete romantic dinner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistible combination of creamy gnocchi with earthy truffle flavor.
Wonderful balance of textures, from soft gnocchi to a silky sauce.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a romantic dinner at home.

Perfecting Your Gnocchi Technique

Creating the perfect gnocchi starts with using the right type of potatoes. Starchy potatoes, like Russets, yield a lighter, fluffier texture compared to waxy varieties. After boiling, make sure to let the potatoes cool enough to handle but not too much that they become dry. This balance is crucial; the dough should be moist and pliable, allowing for easy shaping without becoming sticky from excess flour.

When rolling the gnocchi, try to create uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Each piece should be approximately one inch long. If you find the dough too sticky while shaping, lightly dust your work surface with flour, but be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can make the gnocchi dense.

Crafting the Sauce for Maximum Flavor

The cream sauce is where the magic happens. Using fresh heavy cream will give you a thicker, richer sauce that beautifully coats the gnocchi. Heat the sauce gently; boiling can cause the cream to curdle, so keep it at a low simmer. Once you add the truffle oil, taste and adjust the seasoning carefully, knowing that truffle oil can have a strong flavor—start with half the amount and add more if desired.

For a twist on the classic sauce, consider adding sautéed garlic or shallots for additional depth. Simply cook them in the butter before adding the cream. Another option is to incorporate a splash of white wine to the sauce, allowing it to reduce slightly for a refined tang that complements the truffle's earthiness.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 egg
Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon truffle oil
Freshly grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Gnocchi

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly before mashing them until smooth. In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and a pinch of salt to form a dough. Roll the dough into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Roll each piece off a fork to form a classic gnocchi shape.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook until they rise to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the truffle oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnishing with freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle more truffle oil before serving and pair with a light white wine for an elevated experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a romantic dinner but want to minimize stress, consider making the gnocchi a day ahead. After shaping, place the gnocchi on a floured baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the gnocchi to an airtight container. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the boiling time.

If you have leftover gnocchi, store them in the refrigerator for up to two days in a sealed container. To reheat, simply sauté them in a little butter until warm and slightly crispy on the outside, which adds an appealing texture.

Serving Suggestions

Gnocchi can be served as a stand-alone dish, but if you want to elevate the dining experience further, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the gnocchi while providing a refreshing contrast.

For a more luxurious touch, serve the gnocchi alongside seared scallops or grilled asparagus. These pairings beautifully with the earthy truffle notes of the dish, transforming the meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the gnocchi and refrigerate them for a day. Just be sure to dust them with flour to prevent sticking.

→ Can I substitute the truffle oil?

For a different flavor profile, you can use olive oil, but it won’t have the same rich, earthy flavor.

→ What type of potatoes work best for gnocchi?

Starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal because they give the gnocchi a light and fluffy texture.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is cooked when it floats to the top of the boiling water; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.