Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 300g potato gnocchi; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon truffle oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making gnocchi for special occasions, and this Valentine’s Day, I've created a recipe that combines my passion for pasta with the earthy richness of truffles. The soft, pillowy gnocchi pairs beautifully with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy truffle sauce. It’s an indulgent dish that feels both luxurious and comforting, making it perfect for celebrating love. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your significant other with a meal that looks and tastes gourmet, all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:46:22.900Z

When I crafted this recipe, I wanted to bring a touch of elegance to our Valentine’s dinner without overwhelming myself in the kitchen. The balance of flavors from the sautéed mushrooms and the rich truffle cream sauce makes each bite a delight.

I've found that using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, so I always opt for high-quality mushrooms and truffle oil. A little goes a long way, but it creates a symphony of flavors that's sure to impress. Don't forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before serving!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Luxurious truffle oil adds a gourmet touch to the dish.
Comforting gnocchi provides a soft mouthfeel that's irresistible.
Perfectly balanced flavors that impress without being overly complicated.

      

The Essence of Truffle Oil

Truffle oil is a key ingredient that elevates this dish from a simple gnocchi to a gourmet experience. It adds an earthy aroma and a luxurious flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. When choosing truffle oil, opt for a high-quality product made with real truffles rather than synthetic versions for the best results. A little goes a long way, so start with the tablespoon stated in the recipe and adjust according to your taste.

Make sure to incorporate the truffle oil toward the end of cooking. This ensures the heat doesn't diminish its complex flavors. If you want to experiment, you can substitute it with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil infused with herbs, though it won't replicate the truffle richness.

Perfecting the Gnocchi

The texture of gnocchi can significantly influence the overall dish. It's essential to choose high-quality potato gnocchi, as these tend to be softer and fluffier. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make fresh gnocchi from scratch using starchy potatoes, flour, and egg, taking care not to over-knead for a tender result.

When cooking gnocchi, keep a close eye on them as they float to the top of the boiling water; this indicates they’re done. Be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. After draining, you can toss them lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful presentation, consider serving the gnocchi on a bed of sautéed spinach or arugula. The greens not only add color but also a fresh, peppery contrast to the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top will introduce a lovely crunch that complements the rich flavors.

Feel free to get creative with the mushrooms used in the sauce as well. Different varieties like oyster or portobello can be used for unique textures and flavors. If you prefer a vegetarian version, just ensure all ingredients, especially the cheese, are suitable. This dish can also easily be scaled up for dinner parties; simply multiply the ingredients while maintaining the proportions for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare a romantic dinner of truffle mushroom gnocchi:

For the Gnocchi

300g potato gnocchi
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon truffle oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Valentine dinner:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi until they rise to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Add butter to the skillet followed by the heavy cream. Stir in the truffle oil and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, coating them evenly. Cook for another minute to heat through.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi, and sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your gourmet meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try finishing the dish with a drizzle of additional truffle oil before serving.

Storage and Meal Prep

If you plan to make this dish in advance, store the gnocchi and sauce separately. The gnocchi can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last for about a week in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat; adding a splash of cream can restore its original creaminess.

For freezing, uncooked gnocchi can be placed on a baking sheet in a single layer and frozen until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag. When you're ready to use them, cook them directly from frozen in boiling water. The sauce can also be frozen, so you always have a dinner option ready to go!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water or additional cream to achieve the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to help reduce it. Ensure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially since the salinity will change with the addition of Parmesan cheese.

In case your mushrooms aren’t browning properly, check the heat level on your stovetop. If it’s too low, the mushrooms will release moisture instead of sautéing. It’s essential to give them enough space in the skillet as overcrowding can also trap steam, preventing that desired golden color. Stir occasionally and monitor until they're golden and tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option and will work beautifully in this recipe.

→ What mushrooms are best for this dish?

A mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms adds depth of flavor, but you can use any mushrooms you prefer.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the sauce?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream to make it vegetarian-friendly.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Look for gluten-free gnocchi options available at many grocery stores.