Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce

Name: Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1-2 tablespoons truffle oil (to taste); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce on special occasions or whenever I want to impress my guests. The combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi and the rich, decadent cream sauce infused with the earthy aroma of truffle oil creates a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Each bite is a delightful experience that takes me back to my favorite Italian restaurant. Whether it's a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to steal the spotlight at your table.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:41:34.681Z

When I first tried truffle gnocchi at a quaint little Italian bistro, I was enchanted by its rich, decadent flavor. Inspired by that experience, I decided to recreate it at home. After some experimentation, I nailed down the perfect balance of cream, garlic, and truffle oil that elevates the dish. I've found that using freshly made gnocchi makes a huge difference in taste and texture compared to store-bought.

A tip I always share is to adjust the quantity of truffle oil based on your preference. It can easily overpower the dish, so start with a small amount and add more as needed. This way, you can enjoy the luxurious flavor without it being too overwhelming!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent creaminess that coats each gnocchi perfectly
Rich, earthy flavor from the truffle oil enhances the dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The success of Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce heavily relies on the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality potato gnocchi will provide the desired texture—soft and pillowy. Avoid using pre-packaged, shelf-stable gnocchi as they often lack the authenticity in taste and can turn mushy during cooking. If you have the time, making homemade gnocchi can elevate this dish significantly by allowing you to control the dough's density and flavor.

Equally crucial is the selection of truffle oil. Opt for pure truffle oil, as it offers the intense, rich flavor that artificial blends often lack. A little goes a long way—start with one tablespoon and adjust to your taste preference. Balancing the flavors of the cream and the truffle oil is key, so consider tasting as you go to achieve the perfect level of earthiness and creaminess.

Techniques for Perfect Gnocchi

When cooking the gnocchi, ensure your water is at a rolling boil and well-salted. This helps to flavor the gnocchi as they cook and can dramatically improve the overall taste of the dish. As the gnocchi float to the surface, they typically take about 2-3 minutes, but timing may vary—keep a close eye to prevent overcooking, which can make them soggy. Draining them promptly and tossing them with olive oil can prevent them from sticking together.

Incorporating the gnocchi into the cream sauce should be done gently to avoid breaking them. A light touch will ensure they retain their delicate shape. After tossing them in the sauce, allow them to simmer for a minute over low heat, which helps the gnocchi absorb some of the creamy flavor while maintaining their integrity.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste

For the Cream Sauce

1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1-2 tablespoons truffle oil (to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they float to the top, they are done. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and truffle oil into the cream sauce. Add in the cooked gnocchi and gently toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi and garnish with chopped parsley. Drizzle with a little extra truffle oil if desired, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider finishing the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped truffle or additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cream sauce in advance, which is a great time-saver if you're hosting a gathering. After cooking the sauce, let it cool completely, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently over medium heat before adding the cooked gnocchi. If it thickens too much during refrigeration, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

If you're making homemade gnocchi, prepare them ahead of time and freeze them. Spread the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, there's no need to thaw—simply drop them into boiling water straight from the freezer!

Serving Suggestions

Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce can be an impressive standalone dish, but pairing it with simple sides can elevate your meal further. A fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Alternatively, grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach with garlic can be delightful complements.

For an elegant touch, consider garnishing your plated gnocchi with additional freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of black truffle salt, or even crispy pancetta. These garnishes enhance not just the visual appeal but also provide layers of flavor that perfectly elevate the creamy dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gnocchi in advance and refrigerate them for up to two days before cooking.

→ What if I don’t have truffle oil?

While truffle oil gives the dish its unique flavor, you can substitute it with a drizzle of good quality olive oil for a different yet delicious result.

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option and will still yield a tasty dish. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

For a vegan version, substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative and omit the cheese, or use a vegan cheese option. You can also skip the butter.