Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce

Name: Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; Salt, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon truffle oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I always love experimenting with truffle flavors, and this Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce is one of my favorites. The combination of velvety cream and earthy truffle adds a depth of flavor that elevates simple gnocchi to a luxurious dish. With a mere 30 minutes in the kitchen, you can create a sumptuous meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering. I often serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan and a touch of parsley to add brightness to the dish.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:38:36.266Z

When I first made Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors came together. The key is to use high-quality truffle oil; just a little goes a long way. I also prefer using freshly made gnocchi to ensure the dish remains light and fluffy.

This dish is not just about taste; it's about the entire experience. The aroma while the sauce simmers creates an inviting atmosphere in the kitchen. Plus, finishing it with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan truly lifts the dish to another level.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich truffle aroma that enchants your senses
Silky cream sauce that envelops the gnocchi perfectly
Quick yet feels gourmet – ideal for impressing guests

Mastering the Gnocchi Texture

Achieving the perfect texture for gnocchi is crucial in this dish. Look for gnocchi that is light and fluffy, usually made from a blend of potatoes and flour. When cooking, ensure the water is at a rolling boil, then add the gnocchi gently to avoid sticking. They are ready when they float to the surface, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. If overcooked, they can become mushy, so be ready to scoop them out as soon as they rise.

If you want to enhance the texture of your gnocchi further, consider briefly pan-frying them after boiling. This step, while optional, adds a delightful, crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the cooked gnocchi for 3-5 minutes until golden brown on the edges.

Enhancing the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is where the magic of this dish truly happens. Using heavy cream not only provides that luxurious mouthfeel but also serves as a perfect base to balance the strong flavor of truffle oil. As you simmer the cream, watch for it to thicken slightly, which usually takes around 5 minutes. You want it to coat the back of a spoon—if it runs off too quickly, give it more time over low heat before adding your seasonings.

Feel free to customize the sauce further by incorporating other flavors, such as minced garlic or shallots sautéed in the butter before adding the cream. For an added depth, a splash of white wine can be introduced once the butter melts, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the cream.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

While the dish is delicious on its own, the finishing touches can elevate it even further. I recommend garnishing with freshly chopped parsley not only for a pop of color but also for a fresh flavor that brightens the richness of the cream sauce. Additionally, a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving creates a savory topping that enhances each bite.

For a more complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad can cut through the creaminess of the gnocchi, creating a balanced dining experience. You can also pair the dish with a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the truffle essence.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful dish full of flavor!

For the Gnocchi

1 pound potato gnocchi
Salt, to taste

For the Cream Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon truffle oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

With these simple ingredients, you can create a dish full of flavor and elegance!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

Add Flavors

Stir in the truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Combine well and let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the creamy sauce.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi, garnish with chopped parsley and additional cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Now enjoy your delicious homemade Truffle Gnocchi with Cream Sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding sautéed wild mushrooms to the sauce for a complementing texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to prepare the dish ahead of time, you can make the gnocchi in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you're looking to keep them longer, consider freezing them prior to cooking. Spread the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen, just add a minute or two to the cooking time.

For the sauce, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, adding a splash of cream or milk can restore its silky texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with gnocchi is that they can stick together when boiled. To prevent this, make sure your water is sufficiently salted and boiling before adding the gnocchi. Additionally, consider using a larger pot to give them more room to move around. If they do happen to stick, gently stir them with a slotted spoon during the first minute of cooking to prevent clumping.

If you find your cream sauce isn’t thickening as expected, it might be because the heat is too low. Increase the heat slightly, allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching. If any lumps form during cooking, whisking vigorously will help achieve a smooth consistency.

Flavor Variations and Additions

This basic recipe is incredibly versatile. If you want to add a touch of freshness and complexity, consider folding in freshly sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the cream sauce. The earthy flavors from the mushrooms pair excellently with truffle oil, while spinach adds a healthy green element.

For a kick of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be whisked into the sauce for an unexpected twist. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy yet lower-calorie alternative—just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and saves preparation time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter, but the cream gives it the best texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

You can swap the gnocchi for a vegan variety and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.