Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 tablespoons truffle oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Cozy Planning

I always look for special meals to prepare for Valentine’s Day, and this Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi is my latest favorite. The combination of earthy truffle oil and savory mushrooms creates a luxurious experience that feels restaurant-worthy right at home. I love how the gnocchi absorbs the flavors, making every bite rich and delightful. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re celebrating with a partner or friends, it’s bound to impress and create lasting memories around the table.

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.527Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together, yet it felt so elegant. I experimented with using both fresh herbs and premium truffle oil, which escalated the flavors to a new level. I found the key is to let the mushrooms caramelize well, enhancing their natural umami taste.

One of my favorite tips is to serve this with a light salad on the side; it balances the richness of the gnocchi perfectly. Sharing this with loved ones made the evening unforgettable, and I’m sure it will do the same for you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent flavors of truffle and mushroom elevate a classic dish
Perfectly pillowy gnocchi that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy to prepare, but looks gourmet

Mastering Gnocchi Cooking

Cooking gnocchi to perfection is essential for achieving that delightful pillowy texture. Always start with a large pot of salted water, which helps to season the gnocchi. As they cook, watch for the telltale sign of floating, which indicates they are ready in about 3-4 minutes. For best results, remove them with a slotted spoon to avoid excessive water absorption, which can leave them soggy.

If you want to elevate the gnocchi even further, consider lightly pan-frying them after boiling for an additional layer of flavor. Use a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet and cook them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, for a deliciously crispy exterior while maintaining their soft interior.

Enhancing Mushroom Flavor

When sautéing mushrooms, the key is to allow them to brown properly, which enhances their umami flavor. This should take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. If you find the mushrooms releasing a lot of liquid, increase the heat slightly to evaporate it more quickly.

Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied flavors and textures. For example, shiitake or portobello mushrooms can bring a unique depth to your dish, while adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after the mushrooms are cooked can introduce a new layer of complexity to the sauce.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi is best enjoyed fresh, right after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help bring back the creamy texture without drying out the gnocchi.

For a romantic touch, consider garnishing your plated dish with extra truffle oil drizzled on top, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, or even a few toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to round out your Valentine dinner.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 tablespoons truffle oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Feel free to add some greens or a fresh salad to complement this dish!

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are well browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the mushrooms. Drizzle with truffle oil, toss gently to coat, and season with salt and pepper. Top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your culinary creation with a glass of your favorite wine for an extra special touch!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delightful contrast.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, swap the truffle oil for a high-quality olive oil and add a sprinkle of truffle salt instead. This will maintain the truffle flavor while reducing the richness. For a vegan-friendly twist, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast, which adds a nutty flavor without the dairy.

For a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free gnocchi, which is increasingly available in stores. Just ensure you give them the same treatment—cooking in salted water and sautéing after boiling will result in a satisfying dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. When scaling up, remember to use a larger pot for boiling the gnocchi and a bigger skillet for sautéing the mushrooms. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients.

If you're preparing for more than a few guests, consider preparing a simple side dish—like roasted asparagus or a crisp salad—to complement the richness of the truffle sauce, making your meal feel even more gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just cook them directly from frozen according to the package instructions.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms work best, but feel free to experiment with others like shiitake or oyster for different flavors.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, just ensure the Parmesan is made without animal rennet if needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.