Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh chives for garnish; 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

When I first made truffle gnocchi for a romantic dinner, it truly transformed our evening. The rich and earthy aroma of truffle oil combined with the comforting texture of freshly made gnocchi made for an unforgettable experience. I believe that the love we pour into cooking can be tasted in every bite. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Join me in bringing this delightful dish to your table!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:37:21.517Z

Creating the perfect truffle gnocchi was a labor of love for me. I experimented with various potato types and found that russets yield the lightest, fluffiest dumplings. Tossing them in a luxurious sauce made with heavy cream and a splash of truffle oil made all the difference. The balance of flavors is something I adore about this dish.

After a few tries, I found that allowing the gnocchi to rest before cooking allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Pairing the dish with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs really elevates the flavors, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The luxurious aroma of truffle elevates any meal into a gourmet experience.
Soft, pillowy gnocchi that are surprisingly easy to prepare.
Perfect for impressing someone special on a romantic evening.

      

The Art of Gnocchi Making

The key to achieving soft, pillowy gnocchi lies in the texture of your potato mash. After boiling, allow the potatoes to cool for a moment before mashing; this prevents excess moisture, which can make your gnocchi dense. Aim for a smooth consistency without any lumps. If you find your dough too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour while kneading. Remember, overworking the dough can result in tough gnocchi, so be gentle.

When rolling your gnocchi into ropes, aim for about ½ inch in diameter for even cooking. After cutting the ropes into pieces, consider using the back of a fork to create a slight indentation on each piece. This not only helps sauce adhere better but also creates that charming, classic gnocchi shape that holds a little charm for presentation.

Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce for your truffle gnocchi should be rich yet balanced. When heating the heavy cream, use medium-low heat to prevent boiling, which can cause separation. Stir regularly until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Adding the truffle oil off the heat enhances its flavor and aroma, giving the sauce a luxurious finish. Taste as you go; the right amount of salt and pepper balances the creaminess and accentuates the truffle essence.

For an added layer of depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine into the cream just after it begins to warm. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding cheese. This adjustment introduces acidity that can beautifully complement the rich flavors of the truffle and Parmesan, elevating your dish.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

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

For Sautéed Mushrooms

1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare and Cook the Potatoes

Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly, then mash until smooth.

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, and olive oil. Knead gently until a dough forms. Divide into smaller portions and roll into long ropes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the truffle oil and Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the mushrooms until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Plate with sautéed mushrooms on top and garnish with chopped chives.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding freshly grated nutmeg to the gnocchi dough or using a splash of white wine in the sauce.

Storing and Reheating Gnocchi

If you’re looking to prepare ahead, uncooked gnocchi can be frozen. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag—this prevents them from sticking together. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; cook directly from frozen in boiling salted water for an extra minute or two until they float.

Leftover gnocchi, if not sauced, can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. To reheat, steam them lightly or sauté in a pan with a bit of butter until warmed through. This brings back their delightful texture without making them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Valentine's experience, serve the truffle gnocchi alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich dish. You might consider complementing it with a glass of Pinot Grigio or a light red, which can balance the flavors beautifully.

For a touch of elegance, finish your plated gnocchi with a drizzle of additional truffle oil and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan. You can also experiment by adding toasted pine nuts or crispy prosciutto for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the gnocchi.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, but the freshness of homemade gnocchi really enhances the dish.

→ How do I store leftover gnocchi?

Store cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Absolutely! Freeze raw gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

If you prefer a different flavor, try using garlic-infused oil or simply increase the Parmesan cheese in the sauce.