Romantic Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups potato, peeled and diced; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Modern Planning

I absolutely adore this Romantic Truffle Gnocchi! The combination of pillowy gnocchi with the rich, earthy flavor of truffle elevates this dish to a whole new level. When I created this recipe, I aimed for something that felt indulgent yet approachable, perfect for a cozy night in or a special date. The trick is to use quality truffle oil and fresh ingredients, which bring out the best flavors. Trust me, each bite will leave you and your loved one wanting more!

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:34:37.610Z

When I first served this Romantic Truffle Gnocchi to my partner, the look on their face was priceless. I experimented with various flavors, but the subtle truffle essence combined with the buttery sauce truly made this dish stand out. Cooking the gnocchi just right—boiling until they float—ensured the ideal texture that’s both soft and chewy.

One of the things I learned is that using freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged makes a huge difference in flavor. It’s all those little details that turn a simple meal into a romantic feast. Pair it with a good wine, and you’re set for an unforgettable evening!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Lush truffle flavor that feels luxurious yet comforting
Incredibly tender gnocchi that melts in your mouth
Ideal for special occasions and intimate dinners

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

For this Romantic Truffle Gnocchi, the flavor of the truffle oil is paramount. When selecting truffle oil, opt for high-quality products that contain real truffle extract rather than synthetic flavors. This distinction elevates the dish significantly, as the aromatic notes of genuine truffle oil can intensify the overall experience. Additionally, fresh Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role; its rich, nutty essence melds beautifully with the creamy sauce, contributing to that luxurious feel that makes this meal special.

Don't forget about the potatoes! Using starchy, waxy potatoes such as Russets will yield the best results for your gnocchi. This type of potato has a higher starch content, allowing for a softer texture, which is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality. Be sure to boil them until they are fully tender, as undercooked potatoes can lead to a dense gnocchi that lacks fluffiness.

Perfecting the Gnocchi Technique

Creating the perfect gnocchi is all about texture. When mixing your dough, be careful not to overwork it, as this can activate the gluten in the flour and lead to chewy gnocchi. Aim for a delicate balance when mixing; you want the dough to be cohesive but still airy. It's helpful to lightly flour your hands and working surface to prevent sticking during the rolling and cutting stages, ensuring a smoother handling process.

Once the gnocchi is cooked in boiling water, look for that critical visual cue: they should float. This typically happens within 2-3 minutes. If they begin to stick together, gently stir the pot with a slotted spoon to prevent clumping. Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi, so keep a close eye on the cooking time and remove them promptly once they rise. A quick transfer onto a baking sheet (lightly oiled) can help keep them separated until you're ready to toss them in the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups potato, peeled and diced
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons truffle oil
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Make the Gnocchi

Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then drain and mash. Allow them to cool slightly before mixing in flour, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Combine until a dough forms. Roll the dough into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Press with a fork to create ridges.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Using fresh ingredients and high-quality truffle oil makes all the difference in flavor. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi
they should be tender but firm.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

One of the advantages of this Romantic Truffle Gnocchi is that you can prepare the gnocchi in advance. After shaping the gnocchi, instead of cooking them, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a cozy meal, just cook them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the boiling time.

The sauce can also be made a day in advance. Simply follow the steps up until mixing in the cheese. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it's time to serve, simply reheat it gently over low heat, stirring frequently to restore that glossy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, a splash of cream or pasta cooking water can help loosen it back to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To enhance the romantic aspect of this dish, consider serving your truffle gnocchi with a side of lightly dressed arugula salad. The peppery notes from the arugula paired with a simple lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi and truffle sauce. You might also sprinkle a few additional shards of Parmesan or some toasted walnuts for added texture and flavor.

For a twist on the classic, feel free to experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme pairs beautifully with truffle oil, adding a subtle earthiness that complements the dish wonderfully. Alternatively, you could incorporate seasonal vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms or asparagus to incorporate some color and nutrition into your meal. Just sauté them briefly in the sauce before adding the gnocchi for an effortless addition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make gnocchi in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time and freeze them. Cook them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

If you don’t have truffle oil, you can use extra virgin olive oil, although it won’t have the same distinct flavor.

→ Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just ensure that all ingredients, like the Parmesan cheese, are vegetarian-friendly.

→ What's the best way to store leftover gnocchi?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or cream.