Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; 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: Cozy Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making this Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi to celebrate the romantic season. The luxurious taste of truffle paired with tender gnocchi creates an unforgettable dish that truly impresses. Each bite melts in my mouth, making it a perfect choice for special occasions. Not only is it a delight to eat, but the dish also brings a touch of elegance to the dinner table. I can’t wait to share my secrets for making this exquisite dish that will surely set the mood for any romantic evening.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:59:39.466Z

When I first made this truffle gnocchi for Valentine's Day, it turned out better than I could have imagined. I realized that using high-quality truffle oil really elevates the flavor, making it both rich and aromatic. The gnocchi absorbs the truffly goodness beautifully. Pairing it with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan adds an extra layer of indulgence that I find irresistible.

One tip I always recommend is to finish cooking the gnocchi in the sauce for a couple of minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Additionally, I like to garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness, making every bite a perfect blend of indulgent and fresh.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent truffle flavor that brings a gourmet touch to your meal
Soft, pillowy gnocchi that pairs perfectly with the sauce
A romantic dish that’s perfect for celebrating love and special moments

      

Elevating Your Gnocchi Experience

The quality of your gnocchi will significantly impact the final dish. If possible, opt for fresh potato gnocchi rather than store-bought varieties; fresh gnocchi tends to have a lighter, more luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy truffle sauce. You can even make your own gnocchi from scratch using starchy potatoes for the best results. Just remember to handle the dough gently to keep it light and airy.

Cooking the gnocchi properly is crucial. Pay attention to the pot; it should be boiling vigorously but not at a rolling boil, as this can break the delicate gnocchi. Once you add them, give them a gentle stir to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the gnocchi, as they only need about 2-3 minutes to cook and they’re done when they float to the surface.

Crafting the Perfect Truffle Sauce

For a truly luxurious sauce, choose high-quality truffle oil. The flavor of truffles can vary widely, and using a premium oil can elevate your dish. I recommend starting with a small amount and tasting as you go; truffle oil is potent and can overpower the dish if overused. Balancing the creaminess of the heavy cream with the nutty, savory notes of the Parmesan creates that decadent mouthfeel that is integral to this recipe.

When adding cheese to the sauce, grate it finely for smoother incorporation. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of reserved gnocchi cooking water. This not only helps achieve the right consistency but also adds flavor to the sauce by using water infused with starchy goodness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the truffle sauce. For an elevated presentation, consider drizzling a few drops of truffle oil over the top just before serving for an eye-catching finish. You can also pair this dish with a light side salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance out the rich flavors.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or asparagus to the gnocchi just before serving for a delightful textural contrast. These ingredients complement the earthy notes of truffle beautifully. Alternatively, for a protein boost, sauté some shrimp or chicken breast to serve alongside the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a symphony of flavors for your Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi:

Gnocchi Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the top. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and truffle oil. Stir frequently until it begins to simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to absorb the flavors.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the gnocchi hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted dish with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Using good quality truffle oil makes all the difference in flavor. Always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as needed for the best results.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time to save on cooking time when it's time to serve dinner. Store the finished sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on low heat, stirring frequently, and adding a splash of cream or reserved gnocchi water to bring it back to life.

If you wish to make it even further ahead, consider freezing the unmade gnocchi. Spread them out on a baking tray in a single layer until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the boiling time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce isn't thickening properly, it may be due to the cheese being added too quickly or at too high a temperature. Always add cheese gradually and ensure the sauce is simmering gently; a rapid boil can break the emulsion. Stir vigorously to help the cheese melt evenly and achieve that creamy consistency.

If your gnocchi becomes too gummy during cooking, it may be a sign of overworking the dough or not using enough flour in your homemade version. In future batches, be mindful of your dough consistency and avoid excessive mixing. Stick to a light hand when rolling and shaping.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings, simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings needed. Be mindful of your cookware size; if you're cooking a large batch of gnocchi, you may need to do it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the water temperature and result in unevenly cooked gnocchi.

When scaling up the sauce, it's important to keep the proportions of cream, cheese, and truffle oil balanced. You may want to taste frequently and adjust seasoning, especially since larger quantities can dilute flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just cook them according to the package directions.

→ What if I can't find truffle oil?

You can substitute with a mix of olive oil and a bit of mushroom sauté for richness.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Gnocchi is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it.

→ What should I serve with the gnocchi?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this rich dish.