Romantic Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large russet potatoes; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp truffle oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore shaping homemade gnocchi, especially when it involves the luxurious flavors of truffle. This dish has become a staple for my date nights, transforming a simple evening into something truly special. The creamy truffle sauce coats each pillowy piece of gnocchi, creating a decadent experience that never fails to impress. As I prepare this meal, the aroma of truffle fills the kitchen, setting the mood for romance. With the right cooking techniques, I can ensure that the gnocchi has the perfect texture - tender yet firm and bursting with flavor.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:18.962Z

When I first decided to try my hand at making gnocchi, I was surprised at how straightforward the process would be. Using the right type of potato is crucial; I discovered that russets work best for achieving a light, airy texture. The addition of a touch of truffle oil elevates the dish to something truly gourmet, and I often drizzle a bit more on top just before serving for an extra kick.

As I crafted this recipe, I found that resting the dough slightly before shaping allowed for easier handling, which made all the difference! This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, and I love to finish the evening with a glass of wine to complement the rich flavors.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxurious truffle flavor that sets a romantic mood
Light and fluffy gnocchi made from scratch
A dish that impresses without requiring professional culinary skills

      

Mastering Homemade Gnocchi

When making gnocchi, the quality of your potatoes matters immensely. Opt for russet potatoes, as their fluffy texture creates a lighter gnocchi compared to waxy varieties. Ensure you boil them whole rather than cut, which prevents excess moisture from affecting the dough's consistency. After boiling, allow your potatoes to cool slightly but work with them while they're still warm to ensure a smooth texture and optimal absorption of flour and egg.

Kneading is a crucial step; however, be gentle. Over-kneading can lead to chewy gnocchi rather than the tender pillows we crave. You're aiming for a dough that holds together without being sticky. If you find your dough too wet, dust it with a bit more flour, but do so sparingly to maintain that lightness.

Creating the Perfect Truffle Sauce

The truffle sauce can be customized to enhance your romantic dinner. While heavy cream and truffle oil are classic, consider adding a hint of garlic or shallots sautéed until fragrant for an extra layer of flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the truffle essence, as it's the star here. Keep your heat low while simmering the cream sauce; too much heat can cause it to split, resulting in an unappetizing texture.

For an infused flavor, you might even experiment with a splash of white wine or a bit of mushroom stock to bring depth to your sauce. Remember, the cheese will thicken the sauce as it melts, so don’t rush this step; allow it to simmer gently until it reaches a glossy, velvety consistency.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 large russet potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 tsp salt

For the Truffle Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp truffle oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Prepare your ingredients and get ready to create!

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Boil the russet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly before peeling.

Make the Gnocchi Dough

Pass the peeled potatoes through a ricer or mash them until smooth. In a large bowl, combine the potato, flour, egg, and salt until a dough forms. Knead gently until smooth, then divide into sections.

Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, roll each section into a rope about 1/2-inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and use a fork to create ridges for sauce adhesion.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Truffle Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and truffle oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until creamy.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce until well-coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and an additional drizzle of truffle oil.

Enjoy your delicious dish!

Pro Tips

Be gentle when shaping the gnocchi to keep them light and fluffy. Additionally, using a potato ricer instead of a masher will ensure a smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your truffle gnocchi with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing contrast to the creaminess. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch that complements the soft gnocchi beautifully.

For a more indulgent experience, serve with a crusty artisan bread to soak up any leftover sauce. This not only enhances the meal but also speaks to the romantic atmosphere you're creating.

Make Ahead Tips

Preparing gnocchi ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your date night. You can shape the gnocchi and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply drop them frozen into boiling water; they may require an additional minute or two to cook through.

The truffle sauce can also be made in advance and reheated gently. Just remember to add a little more cream or water to revive its texture if it thickens while sitting. This way, you can focus on enjoying your evening rather than spending it in the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make gnocchi in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them. Just cook them from frozen when ready.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

If you don't have truffle oil, you can use olive oil mixed with a little garlic and mushroom for a similar flavor.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh potatoes?

For the best texture, fresh potatoes are recommended over pre-packaged gnocchi or instant varieties.

→ What type of sauce pairs well with gnocchi?

Gnocchi pairs well with creamy sauces, pesto, or a simple marinara. Feel free to experiment with flavors!