Romantic Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of ricotta cheese; 1 cup of all-purpose flour; 1 egg, lightly beaten; Salt to taste; Freshly grated nutmeg (optional); 3 tablespoons of truffle oil; 1/4 cup of heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Highlighted under: Clean Food

As I prepared the Romantic Truffle Gnocchi for our special dinner, I felt a rush of excitement. The aroma of earthy truffles filled the kitchen, making my mouth water. I’ve always believed that cooking is a way to express love, and this dish is a perfect example. The combination of fluffy gnocchi and rich truffle oil creates a decadent experience that’s simply irresistible. It’s an ideal meal for a cozy evening, letting us savor each bite and enjoy the moment together.

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:05:35.093Z

When I first experimented with making gnocchi from scratch, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was. The dough comes together quickly, and the key is to handle it gently to keep it light and fluffy. Incorporating truffle oil elevates the dish, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. I found that a little goes a long way, so start with a small drizzle and adjust to taste.

Pairing this dish with a light salad and a glass of white wine creates an intimate dining experience. I often garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan to enhance the flavors. Each bite transports us to a cozy Italian trattoria, making it a memorable meal for any romantic evening.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luxurious truffle flavor that enhances every bite
Soft gnocchi that’s perfectly pillowy
Perfectly suited for date nights or special celebrations

Understanding Gnocchi Texture

When making gnocchi, the texture is key. You want the dough to be soft yet firm enough to hold its shape while cooking. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, but be cautious not to overdo it, as too much flour can lead to tough gnocchi. A light touch is essential; overworking the dough can create a chewy texture instead of the desired pillow-like softness.

To ensure your gnocchi turn out light and fluffy, the ricotta should be drained well before mixing. Excess moisture can make the dough too wet. I usually place the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve for about 30 minutes to remove any extra liquid. This simple step can greatly improve the final texture of your gnocchi.

Mastering the Sauce

The truffle oil you choose can significantly affect the flavor of your sauce. Opt for high-quality oil, as it can enhance the dish without overwhelming the other ingredients. I recommend starting with a small amount, as truffle oil can be quite potent. You can always add more to taste, but it's difficult to dial back once added.

When combining the sauce, heat it over medium-low rather than high heat. This ensures that the cream warms gradually without curdling. Look for a glossy appearance before adding the gnocchi. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help achieve the right consistency and bring everything together.

Serving and Variations

For an elegant presentation, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls, allowing the sauce to pool slightly at the bottom. A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that complements the richness of the dish beautifully. For added umami, consider pairing it with sautéed wild mushrooms or crispy pancetta on top.

If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding sautéed garlic or shallots to the sauce for extra depth. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as fontina or goat cheese, for unique flavor profiles. Remember that cooking is all about personal taste, so don’t hesitate to modify the recipe to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups of ricotta cheese
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 egg, lightly beaten
Salt to taste
Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons of truffle oil
1/4 cup of heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Gather all your ingredients for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, flour, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. If desired, add a touch of freshly grated nutmeg for extra flavor.

Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, divide the dough into quarters. Roll each quarter into a long rope about 1/2-inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Press each piece with a fork to create ridges, which will help hold the sauce.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop gnocchi into the water. Once they float to the surface, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan over medium heat, combine truffle oil and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and allow the sauce to warm through but not boil.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the pan with the truffle sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite wine!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, sauté some garlic in the truffle oil before adding cream. You can also use store-bought gnocchi if you're short on time.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning an intimate dinner, making gnocchi ahead of time can save precious moments. The uncooked gnocchi can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a bag once frozen solid. This way, you can simply boil them from frozen, extending the cooking time by about 1-2 minutes.

Prepare the sauce in advance as well. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to keep it from thickening too much.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your gnocchi fall apart while boiling, it’s likely that the dough was too wet or not mixed enough. To fix this, you can either add a bit more flour to the dough or ensure it's well combined by kneading briefly. Also, make sure you are using fresh ricotta, as older cheese can contain excess moisture.

For a sauce that's too thin, let it simmer gently to reduce, or you can whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it up. Alternatively, you can add an extra bit of cheese, which also enhances the flavor and helps bind the sauce together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi in advance and freeze them. Just make sure to dust them with flour before freezing to prevent sticking.

→ What can I serve with truffle gnocchi?

A light salad or roasted vegetables makes a perfect pairing, balancing the richness of the gnocchi.

→ Is truffle oil vegetarian?

Yes, most truffle oils are vegetarian, but check the label to ensure there are no animal products.

→ How do I store leftover gnocchi?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.