Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi

Name: Valentine Dinner Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 500g gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 250g mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini); 3 tbsp truffle oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 50g parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing this Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi for special occasions like Valentine's Day. The combination of earthy mushrooms, luxurious truffle oil, and pillowy gnocchi creates a romantic and indulgent dish that truly impresses. We often enjoy this recipe paired with a crisp white wine and a side salad. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout choice for dinner, and I always find it brings smiles to the table, making it a perfect dish for celebrating love.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:13:09.270Z

When I first made this Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi, I was amazed at how easy it was to elevate such simple ingredients into something truly sublime. The key is using high-quality truffle oil, which adds an incredible depth of flavor. I remember experimenting with different types of mushrooms, and found that a mix of shiitake and cremini provided both a robust taste and delightful texture.

Another tip I learned is to sauté the mushrooms until they are well golden. This caramelization enhances their natural flavors and gives the dish a beautiful umami kick. Now, whenever I make this dish, it always feels like a special occasion, and it never fails to impress my guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxurious flavor from truffle oil
Comforting texture of gnocchi
Perfect for a romantic dinner

      

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The selection of mushrooms plays a crucial role in the flavor of this dish. I recommend using a mix of shiitake and cremini mushrooms for their rich, earthy tastes. Shiitake mushrooms add a meaty texture, while cremini bring a mild nuttiness that complements the truffle oil beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also experiment with oyster or portobello mushrooms, but ensure they are freshly sourced for the best flavor profile.

It's important to clean your mushrooms properly before cooking. Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to remove any dirt. Avoid soaking them in water, as mushrooms can absorb moisture, making them soggy during cooking. When sliced, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking, which enhances their caramelization and brings out their natural sweetness.

Gnocchi Techniques

For the best texture in your gnocchi, cooking them just until they float is essential. This indicates they’re done without becoming mushy. If you're using homemade gnocchi, make sure they’re uniformly rolled and cut; irregular shapes can lead to uneven cooking. Allow them to rest briefly before cooking to firm up, which helps achieve that ideal pillowy texture when sautéed with the mushrooms.

If you're short on time, store-bought gnocchi can be a lifesaver. Opt for fresh gnocchi over dried ones for superior taste and texture. Follow the package instructions for cooking times, but always keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfect to overcooked quickly.

Finishing Touches

The final toss with truffle oil is where the magic really happens. It not only infuses the dish with a luxurious aroma but also enhances the overall flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it's potent. Start with a drizzle and taste before adding more, ensuring a balance without overpowering the other ingredients.

For additional depth, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the mushrooms. This step will deglaze the pan, capturing those flavor-packed browned bits while adding a delightful acidity that brightens the dish. Let the wine cook off for a couple of minutes before adding the gnocchi to keep the flavors vibrant.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:

Main Ingredients

500g gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
250g mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini)
3 tbsp truffle oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
50g parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of truffle oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then add the mixed mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown.

Combine and Serve

Once the mushrooms are ready, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Toss to combine and add the remaining truffle oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little more truffle oil just before serving. Additionally, try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the mushrooms for enhanced depth of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Truffle Mushroom Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life—this prevents it from drying out and helps retain its original texture.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the mushrooms and gnocchi separately. Cook and cool the mushrooms in advance; store them in the fridge. On the day you plan to serve, reheat the mushrooms and finish the dish as directed—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising quality.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dinner experience, I suggest pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The freshness of the wine complements the earthy notes of the mushrooms and the richness of the truffle oil beautifully. You can also opt for a light rosé for a delightful contrast.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving this gnocchi alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The peppery bite of the arugula contrasts nicely with the richness of the gnocchi, creating a balanced meal that pleases the palate.

Variations to Explore

If you're looking to customize this dish, you can easily incorporate vegetables like spinach or asparagus. Sauté them briefly with the mushrooms for added color and nutrition, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. You could also add a splash of cream for an even richer sauce, making it a delightful treat.

For a vegan version, substitute the gnocchi with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Additionally, experiment with infused oils or a hint of garlic and herb olive oil to capture that inviting feel of truffle without using animal products.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute gnocchi made without eggs, and replace Parmesan with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

A mix of shiitake and cremini mushrooms provides a great balance of flavor and texture, but feel free to use any of your favorites.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water.

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi can enhance the dish even more, just ensure they are cooked properly before adding to the sauce.