Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making special dinners for Valentine’s Day, and this Truffle Gnocchi is a standout in my repertoire. The rich flavors of truffle oil combined with tender, pillowy gnocchi create a dish that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up something that impresses my loved one while still being comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to set the mood for romance.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:55:08.864Z

When I first made this Truffle Gnocchi, I never expected it to be such a hit. The aroma of truffle oil wafting through my kitchen was intoxicating, and each bite was wonderfully creamy and satisfying. I realized that the key is to not overcook the gnocchi – they should have a slight bite, or al dente texture, to make the dish more exciting.

I also love adding freshly grated Parmesan on top; it enhances the flavors beautifully. Trust me, this dish will make any dinner feel like an occasion, and it’s so easy to prepare that you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The earthy aroma of truffle oil elevates the flavors.
Soft, pillowy gnocchi that melt in your mouth.
Perfectly balanced with just the right amount of creaminess.

      

Mastering Gnocchi Cooking

Cooking gnocchi can be a delicate process, but the key is watching for those tender dumplings as they float to the surface of the boiling water. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. To prevent them from sticking, ensure your water is salty enough—this helps build flavor while cooking. If they seem too sticky after cooking, consider using a light dusting of flour when draining them. This not only adds flavor but prevents them from clumping together.

After draining, gently toss the gnocchi in a small amount of olive oil to keep them separate. This step is especially helpful if you plan to prepare the sauce a bit later, allowing the gnocchi to stay fresh without cooling down too much. Remember, gnocchi can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or even frozen, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch for a future romantic dinner!

The Sauce: Elevating Flavors

When combining the heavy cream and truffle oil in the skillet, keep the heat at medium to avoid scalding the cream. It's crucial to stir frequently to ensure the mixture thickens evenly, creating a smooth and velvety sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer for an additional couple of minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to enhance its texture without compromising flavor.

The quality of truffle oil can drastically influence the final dish. Look for oil that is derived from real truffles rather than synthetic flavorings. A little goes a long way, so adjust to your taste. If you want a lighter touch, consider substituting part of the heavy cream with half-and-half, while still maintaining that rich creaminess essential for truffle dishes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving your Truffle Gnocchi, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Consider using a shallow bowl to showcase the gentle sheen of the sauce and the contrasting colors of the gnocchi and parsley. A sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan over the top just before serving not only adds flavor but also gives an appealing visual finish. Drizzle some extra truffle oil around the plate for a refined touch that hints at the luxurious flavors within.

For a complete Valentine dinner, pair this dish with a light, crisp salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the gnocchi. A glass of dry white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, can beautifully complement the earthy notes of the truffle oil. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding sautéed mushrooms to the dish. Their deep, umami flavor resonates perfectly with the truffle, making for an even more decadent experience.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a lovely dinner:

Ingredients

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

These ingredients combine to make a deliciously rich dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Truffle Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and truffle oil. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serve your delicious Truffle Gnocchi hot, and enjoy a romantic evening!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding sautéed wild mushrooms to the dish. They pair beautifully with the truffle oil and add depth to the flavor.

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in stores. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still provide that comforting, pillowy quality. Additionally, if you're unable to find truffle oil, a blend of olive oil and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh truffle (if available) can provide a similar, albeit fresher and more potent, flavor profile.

For those who prefer a lighter version of the dish, substitute the heavy cream with a blend of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. This creates a creamy texture without the extra calories, while still allowing the sensational flavor of truffles to shine through. Just remember to whisk the yogurt in off the heat to prevent it from curdling.

Make-Ahead Strategies

To save time on the day of your special dinner, consider preparing the gnocchi in advance. You can either cook them and store in the fridge for a day or freeze them for up to a month. To freeze, lay them out on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them into a zip-top bag. Just remember to increase your cooking time slightly if you’re cooking them from frozen, as they may take closer to 4-5 minutes to rise to the surface.

The sauce can also be made a day ahead. Simply reheat gently over low heat while stirring to prevent it from breaking. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of cream or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. That way, you can impress your date without spending all your time in the kitchen.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce separates or curdles, it can be salvaged by vigorously whisking in a bit of warm cream or broth off the heat. This can help bring it back together by emulsifying the fats. Always start on a medium heat and avoid letting it reach boiling point when you are simmering your cream sauce; keeping it at a gentle simmer is key.

For gnocchi that clump together, make sure not to overcrowd the pot when boiling, and toss them lightly with olive oil immediately after draining. If you notice your homemade gnocchi aren’t as fluffy as you'd like, ensure not to overwork the dough when mixing—it should be soft, not tough. A touch of potato starch can also help with texture if your dough feels too wet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and still tastes fantastic.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is truffle oil necessary?

While truffle oil is the star ingredient, you can substitute it with flavored olive oil for a different taste.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can use vegan gnocchi and a dairy-free cream alternative to make it vegan-friendly.