Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration
I absolutely love making Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce on special occasions. The rich, earthy aroma of truffle oil combined with the creamy sauce creates an indulgent experience that's hard to resist. Every time I prepare this dish, I’m amazed by how simple ingredients can yield such gourmet flavors. Whether I'm entertaining friends or treating myself, this dish never disappoints and always leaves everyone wanting seconds! It’s an unforgettable addition to any dinner menu that feels both elegant and comforting.
When I first discovered how to make Gnocchi from scratch, it felt like unlocking a secret to Italian comfort food. The combination of the delicate potato dumplings with a creamy truffle sauce has become my go-to recipe for impressing guests. Using fresh ingredients really makes a difference, especially when it comes to the sauce which is so easy to whip up in minutes.
One tip I have is to not rush the cooking of the gnocchi; letting them brown slightly in the pan enhances their flavor. The secret to this dish lies in the balance between the richness of the cream and the subtle earthiness of truffles, making each bite a luxurious treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Luxurious creaminess balanced with aromatic truffle oil
- Homemade gnocchi that melts in your mouth
- Effortlessly elegant, perfect for dinner parties
Mastering the Gnocchi Technique
The foundation of great gnocchi starts with the right texture. When mashing the potatoes, ensure they are completely smooth; any lumps will lead to an uneven dough. I recommend using a ricer if you have one, as it creates a lighter and fluffier texture. Avoid overworking the dough once you combine it with flour and egg—this prevents tough gnocchi. The dough should be soft but not sticky, making it easy to roll into logs.
When cutting the gnocchi, try to maintain a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Aim for bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch long. If you feel adventurous, use a fork to create ridges on each piece. This not only gives a traditional look but also helps the sauce cling better to the gnocchi. Remember to dust with flour to keep them from sticking together.
Crafting the Perfect Cream Sauce
The cream sauce for this gnocchi is where the magic truly happens. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat to avoid scorching the garlic. Once sautéed until fragrant, take care not to let it brown, as it can become bitter. When simmering the cream, keep an eye on it; you want a gentle bubble—not a full boil. This will maintain the cream's creamy consistency and prevent it from separating.
Once combined, the sauce should become slightly thickened after a few minutes, creating a luscious coating for your gnocchi. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to balance the flavors. A pinch of nutmeg can also elevate the earthiness without overpowering the truffle oil. Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs, like thyme or chives, for a unique twist.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 2 cups potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg
- Salt to taste
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons truffle oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Gnocchi
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the potato cubes until tender. Drain and let them cool slightly before mashing until smooth. Mix in the flour, egg, and salt to form a dough. Roll into logs and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Make the Cream Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the cream sauce. Allow to cook together for a couple of minutes, letting flavors meld.
Serve
Plate the gnocchi and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy your luxurious dish!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the cream sauce. It enhances the truffle experience beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Gnocchi
If you have leftover gnocchi or want to make a batch ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! After cooking, spread them out on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then freeze for about 30 minutes. Transfer once frozen to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to use, you can drop them straight from the freezer into boiling water—no thawing necessary.
For reheating, a quick sauté in the cream sauce works wonders. This method revives their texture and flavor. Just be mindful of a low heat to ensure the gnocchi warm through without becoming mushy. This dish maintains its elegance even as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce, consider pairing it with a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery taste of arugula balances the richness of the dish beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal. You could even add roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a seasonal touch and added nutrition.
For a more indulgent touch, serve the gnocchi with a drizzle of additional truffle oil just before serving. A few shavings of fresh truffle on top can transform this already luxurious dish into a truly decadent experience, perfect for special occasions. Don’t forget a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for extra flavor!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi can save time, just follow the package instructions for cooking.
→ What type of truffle oil should I use?
Use high-quality truffle oil for the best flavor; a little goes a long way!
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly and skip any meat additions.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, and reheat gently.
Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
I absolutely love making Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce on special occasions. The rich, earthy aroma of truffle oil combined with the creamy sauce creates an indulgent experience that's hard to resist. Every time I prepare this dish, I’m amazed by how simple ingredients can yield such gourmet flavors. Whether I'm entertaining friends or treating myself, this dish never disappoints and always leaves everyone wanting seconds! It’s an unforgettable addition to any dinner menu that feels both elegant and comforting.
Created by: Nicola Fairchild
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Gnocchi
- 2 cups potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg
- Salt to taste
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons truffle oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the potato cubes until tender. Drain and let them cool slightly before mashing until smooth. Mix in the flour, egg, and salt to form a dough. Roll into logs and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the cream sauce. Allow to cook together for a couple of minutes, letting flavors meld.
Plate the gnocchi and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy your luxurious dish!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the cream sauce. It enhances the truffle experience beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g