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This indulgent millionaire gnocchi with creamy sauce feels like a restaurant-worthy dinner you can easily whip up at home any night. The tender potato gnocchi gently coated in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce with a hint of truffle oil turns a simple dish into something special. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.
I first made this on a cozy weekend when I wanted something decadent but fuss-free. Ever since, it’s been a go-to for when I want that extra touch of elegance without the hassle.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Potato gnocchi: the soft pillowy base, choose fresh or good quality store-bought for the best texture
- Unsalted butter: provides a creamy richness essential to the sauce, avoid salted to control seasoning better
- Garlic: minced fresh to infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth
- Heavy cream: creates the silky, indulgent sauce, opt for full fat to get the right consistency and flavor
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for a nutty, sharp taste that melts beautifully, look for real Parmigiano Reggiano
- Fresh parsley: chopped to add a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness
- Truffle oil: just a little drizzle for that unmistakable earthy luxury, choose a quality oil to avoid overpowering flavors
- Salt and black pepper: essential seasonings to balance all the flavors, grind fresh pepper if possible
How to Make It
- Sauté the garlic and melt butter:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter carefully so it does not brown. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step builds the aromatic foundation for the sauce.
- Cook the gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently drop the gnocchi into the water and cook just until they float to the surface which means they are tender and cooked through. This usually takes two to three minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain well.
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce:
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with butter and garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about three to four minutes. This slow mixing helps the cheese melt evenly creating a smooth sauce.
- Combine gnocchi and sauce:
- Add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet and gently toss to coat each piece well with the creamy sauce. Be careful to fold gently so the gnocchi keep their shape and don’t break apart.
- Finish with truffle oil and seasoning:
- Drizzle the truffle oil over the gnocchi and season liberally with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Toss very gently just once or twice. The truffle oil adds that signature earthy flavor burst that lifts the whole dish.
- Garnish and serve immediately:
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a fresh color and herbal note. Serve right away while warm and creamy.
I love the hit of truffle oil here because it transforms ordinary gnocchi into something that feels like a lux treat. It reminds me of a winter dinner where friends came over and everyone kept going back for seconds because of that silky sauce and fragrant truffle aroma. A little drizzle goes a long way so be sparing at first until you find your perfect balance.
Flavor Boosters
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a fresh color and herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Pair with grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms for an earthy complement. A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay balances the creamy sauce well.
Creative Twists
In spring or summer add fresh peas or asparagus tips into the sauce for brightness and texture. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top adds a fresh aromatic lift during warmer months. In fall and winter, mushrooms sautéed with garlic make a cozy addition to the creamy base.
This millionaire gnocchi elevates a simple meal into a decadent experience with minimal effort. Perfect for when you want to indulge without the fuss.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?
The gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface of the boiling water, indicating they are cooked through.
- → Can I substitute Parmesan cheese with another type?
Yes, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used as alternatives, providing a slightly different but complementary flavor.
- → What is the role of truffle oil in this dish?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic depth that enhances the creamy sauce and elevates the overall flavor profile.
- → How should I season the dish to balance flavors?
Use salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, adjusting gradually to complement the richness of the cream and cheese.
- → Can fresh parsley be omitted or substituted?
Fresh parsley adds brightness and a subtle herbal note, but it can be omitted or replaced with fresh basil or chives if preferred.