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 gnocchi; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Favorites

I recently discovered the magic of truffle oil, and it completely transformed my gnocchi experience! This Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce has quickly become a favorite in our household. The combination of the rich, creamy sauce with the earthy notes of truffle oil creates a luxurious and comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. I'm excited to share this recipe with you, as it's not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:06:34.935Z

Ever since I tried this dish at a small Italian restaurant, I was determined to recreate it at home. The creamy texture paired with the truffle scent was something I'd never forget. My first attempt was a bit too heavy on the cream, but over time, I learned the right balance for a velvety sauce that complements the gnocchi beautifully.

Another tip I discovered is to finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving. It enhances the flavors incredibly and gives it that restaurant-quality finish that will impress anyone you serve it to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxuriously creamy sauce that envelops every bite of gnocchi
Harmonious blend of earthy truffle flavor and rich creaminess
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner!

      

The Importance of Gnocchi Quality

When making Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce, the quality of the gnocchi is crucial. Fresh gnocchi, if available, provides a tender bite that complements the rich sauce beautifully. Look for gnocchi that feels lightweight and has a smooth surface, as this indicates they will cook evenly and absorb the sauce well. If using packaged gnocchi, check the ingredients list for minimal additives to ensure you’re getting authentic flavors.

If you find yourself short on time, frozen gnocchi can be a great alternative, although it may lack some freshness. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking time may vary. No matter the choice, properly cooking the gnocchi until they float is essential; it means they are ready for the cream sauce.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish, and using heavy cream ensures richness that perfectly balances the truffle oil. If you're looking for a lighter version, you might consider using half-and-half or whole milk; however, this will slightly alter the creaminess. A tip I find helpful is to keep the heat medium to low when simmering the cream; this prevents it from curdling and allows time for flavors to meld without scorching.

Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also helps thicken the sauce. Be sure to grate it yourself, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Watch the sauce closely as it thickens; it should coat the back of a spoon and leave a trail when you run your finger through it.

Presentation and Variations

For serving, presentation can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant color contrast and fresh flavor, while a light drizzle of additional truffle oil can intensify the aroma. Consider serving the dish on warmed plates to maintain the creamy texture longer. This small touch can make a significant difference in the dining experience, especially when serving guests.

If you’re in the mood to try variations, feel free to incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added texture and depth. You can also substitute the truffle oil with a dash of finely chopped truffle, if available, for an even richer flavor. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability, allowing you to impress with ingredients you love.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a decadent experience.

Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi
2 tablespoons truffle oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your masterpiece.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the truffle oil and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra drizzle of truffle oil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an added touch of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or peas to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi and cream sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the gnocchi's texture and prevents them from becoming mushy when reheated. Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor.

When ready to reheat, I recommend gently warming the sauce over low heat on the stove, whisking continuously to redistribute the cream. For the gnocchi, a quick sauté in a skillet with a splash of water or broth can help revive them and prevent sticking. The goal is to reintroduce heat gradually so as not to compromise the cream sauce.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce recipe for a larger group is straightforward. Just keep the 1:1 ratio of gnocchi to sauce in mind when increasing quantities. It's usually best to cook the gnocchi in batches to prevent overcrowding in the pot, which can lead to uneven cooking.

For larger gatherings, consider preparing two skillets of the cream sauce simultaneously to keep service efficient. Ensure you keep an eye on seasoning as you scale; sometimes larger batches require slight adjustments in salt and pepper to ensure balanced flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time, and it tastes just as great when slathered in this creamy sauce.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or cream cheese for a lighter version, though it may alter the richness slightly.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.