Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 1 cup of ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; Salt to taste; 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I created this Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi to elevate our special date night at home. The dish combines the delightful texture of pillowy gnocchi with the decadent flavor of truffle sauce. As we sat down to enjoy it together, the aroma filled the room, making it feel like we were dining in a cozy Italian bistro. I love that it comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing us to focus on each other rather than spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a perfect way to celebrate love with a dish that feels extravagant yet comforting.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:17:34.419Z

When I first tried making gnocchi from scratch, I never imagined it would become a favorite dish at our table, especially for a romantic occasion. The addition of truffle oil transforms the gnocchi into something extraordinary. I learned that the secret is to handle the dough gently, and not over-knead it, which keeps each piece light and fluffy.

Pairing the gnocchi with a simple creamy sauce means the truffle flavor really shines through without overwhelming the palate. Each bite bursts with an earthy richness that complements the soft texture beautifully. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent truffle flavor that elevates a simple dish
Pillowy gnocchi that melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for a romantic dinner

      

The Art of Crafting Gnocchi

Making gnocchi is all about balancing the ingredients to achieve that coveted pillowy texture. Ricotta cheese is key here, as it introduces moisture which contributes to a lighter finish compared to traditional potato gnocchi. When mixing, be sure not to overwork the dough; stop as soon as it comes together to avoid a dense outcome. If your dough feels too sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour as you shape it, rather than adding too much flour to the mixture.

Rolling the gnocchi into ropes is a delicate process. Aim for ropes about ¾-inch thick, and cut them into pieces roughly the size of a cherry. Don't worry if they aren't perfectly uniform; the irregular shapes will create texture and aid in holding onto the sauce. If you have a gnocchi board or fork, use it to create ridges; these will help capture the decadent truffle sauce beautifully.

Mastering the Truffle Sauce

The sauce is where you can really elevate this dish. Start by melting the butter over a medium heat; if it foams excessively, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning. Once melted, the cream should be added gradually. Ensure the mixture simmers gently rather than boiling, which can cause the sauce to separate. You’re looking for a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon—a sign it’s ready for the gnocchi.

Truffle oil is potent, so start with 2 tablespoons and adjust according to your taste preference. You can easily substitute with olive oil or a blend if truffle oil is unavailable, but the unique flavor might not be replicated. A touch of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also be whisked in at the end for an extra layer of umami flavor. Remember to season it well with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to ensure balance.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi

For the Gnocchi

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of ricotta cheese
1 large egg
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg

For the Sauce

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons truffle oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality truffle oil for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and nutmeg until smooth. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead gently until just combined. Roll into ropes and cut into small pieces.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the truffle oil, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

Combine and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious homemade truffle gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the presentation of your Valentine Dinner Truffle Gnocchi, consider plating it on a warmed dish. This simple step helps maintain the temperature of the dish longer, allowing for a cozy dining experience. You could also add a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese and a drizzle of extra truffle oil for a gourmet touch right before serving.

For a complete romantic dinner, pair the gnocchi with a light salad featuring arugula and shaved Parmesan. The peppery notes of the arugula will balance the richness of the truffle sauce beautifully. A glass of Pinot Grigio could be an excellent accompaniment, enhancing the meal's flavors while maintaining a light feel.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time: once shaped, place them in a single layer on a floured baking sheet and freeze. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. When ready to cook, add them directly to boiling water without thawing; they may take a minute longer to float, indicating they are ready to be sauced.

If you have leftover sauce, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slowly on low heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much. This way, you can enjoy the delicious taste of truffle sauce without having to start from scratch every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour for gnocchi?

Yes, but all-purpose flour yields the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

You can use olive oil and a bit of mushroom powder for a similar earthy flavor.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi are done cooking?

They float to the top of the water when they are fully cooked.

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, the uncooked gnocchi can be frozen and then boiled straight from the freezer.