Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce

Name: Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; Salt to taste; Nutmeg (a pinch); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp truffle oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce at home. The delicate texture of homemade gnocchi is elevated by the rich cream and the earthy aroma of truffles. Every time I prepare this dish, the delightful aroma fills my kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. It’s a wonderful way to impress friends or simply enjoy a cozy dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can elevate your weeknight meal to something truly special. Let’s dive into making this luxurious dish!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:25:35.549Z

When I first tasted truffle gnocchi at a local restaurant, I was instantly hooked on the rich, earthy flavors and creamy texture. After several tries to replicate it at home, I finally cracked the code with a combination of high-quality ingredients and the right technique. I realized that allowing the gnocchi to rest before cooking makes them lighter and airier, which is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality results.

One specific tip I learned is to be generous with the truffle oil, but not overwhelming. A little goes a long way in enhancing the flavor without overpowering the dish. This recipe has become my go-to for special occasions and has won over many guests with its luxurious appeal!

        You Will Love This Recipe Because
        The luxurious aroma of truffles adds a gourmet touch.
Creamy sauce that envelops every bite in richness.
Perfect balance of flavors with a hint of parmesan.

      

Perfecting Your Gnocchi

The key to achieving a light and fluffy gnocchi lies in the balance of ingredients. Using ricotta cheese not only adds a creamy texture but also keeps the dough moist. Be cautious with your flour; adding too much can lead to dense gnocchi. Aim for a dough that is soft but not overly sticky—about 1 to 1.5 cups of flour may be perfect, depending on the moisture of your ricotta. Test the dough by boiling a small piece first; it should hold its shape and float to the surface.

Technique plays a crucial role when shaping gnocchi. While rolling dough into ropes, ensure they are uniform in thickness (about ¾ inch) to allow for even cooking. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece which help sauce cling better, enhancing each bite. If you find the dough too soft to handle, a brief refrigeration period can make shaping much easier. This tactile approach is essential for a delightful texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Crafting the Cream Sauce

Making the cream sauce is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Start by heating the heavy cream over medium heat; avoid boiling it as high temperatures can cause separation. Ensure the cream is warm enough to melt the parmesan effectively, creating a luscious and thick sauce. Stir continuously until it achieves a glossy finish—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If you find it too thick, you can lighten it with a splash of pasta cooking water or additional cream.

Truffle oil is the star ingredient of this sauce. Its flavor intensity can vary by brand, so I recommend starting with 2 tablespoons. Adjust to your taste, adding more if you desire a stronger truffle presence. Fresh herbs like parsley not only add a pop of color but also enhance the earthiness of the truffles. For a twist, consider substituting the truffle oil with a blend of sautéed mushrooms for a vegan version while still maintaining depth of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
Salt to taste
Nutmeg (a pinch)

For the Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp truffle oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead gently, then let it rest for 10 minutes.

Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into small pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into 1-inch pieces. Create ridges on each piece using a fork.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in parmesan cheese and truffle oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Toss the gnocchi with the cream sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious homemade truffle gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store gnocchi and cream sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This prevents the gnocchi from becoming soggy as they absorb moisture from the sauce. When ready to enjoy them again, you can gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat. For the gnocchi, a quick revitalization in boiling water (about 1 minute) will work wonders, refreshing their texture before serving.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked gnocchi. Once shaped, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 30 minutes. Afterwards, transfer them to a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to 2 months. There’s no need to thaw before cooking—simply drop them into boiling water straight from the freezer and cook until they float.

Variations to Try

While this recipe shines with the classic truffle and parmesan combination, feel free to get creative. You can infuse the cream sauce with other flavors by adding sautéed garlic or shallots for a deeper taste. A splash of white wine can elevate the sauce further, giving it a sophisticated acidity. For a herbaceous note, consider stirring in fresh thyme or chives right before serving.

To take the dish in a different direction, consider adding seasonal vegetables such as sautéed asparagus or peas for a pop of color and freshness. Mixed mushrooms or sautéed spinach can also be delightful additions that complement the gnocchi without overpowering the truffle essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi to save time, but make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ What can I substitute for truffle oil?

You can use olive oil mixed with a small amount of truffle salt for a similar flavor.

→ How do I store leftover gnocchi?

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi. Just make sure to spread them out on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.