Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just a cozy date night in—nothing says “I love you” like handmade heart-shaped gnocchi in a luscious pink sauce! This recipe combines pillowy potato dumplings with a velvety tomato-cream sauce that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy.
Whether you’re a pasta-making newbie or a seasoned home cook, this guide will walk you through every step—from perfecting the gnocchi dough to balancing the creamy, tangy sauce. Let’s make a dish that’s equal parts romantic, impressive, and downright tasty!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
💖 Adorable & Festive – Heart-shaped gnocchi makes any meal feel special
🍝 Restaurant-Quality at Home – Fresh gnocchi beats store-bought every time
🥔 Perfect Texture – Light, fluffy, and never gummy
🍅 Creamy Pink Sauce – The ideal balance of rich and tangy
⏱ Surprisingly Easy – No fancy tools needed (just a heart cookie cutter!)
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Gnocchi:
- 2 medium russet potatoes (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (+ extra for dusting)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
For the Pink Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (+ extra for topping)
- Pasta water (as needed)
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Gnocchi Dough
- Cook the potatoes: Boil peeled, cubed potatoes in salted water for 15 mins until fork-tender.
- Mash well: Drain and mash until completely smooth (no lumps!). Let cool slightly.
- Form the dough: On a floured surface, mix mashed potatoes, flour, eggs, and salt. Knead gently into a soft, non-sticky dough (don’t overwork it!).
- Rest the dough: Cover and let sit 10 mins (helps texture).
2. Shape the Hearts
- Roll & cut: Divide dough in half. Roll one portion into a ½-inch-thick sheet.
- Cut hearts: Use a small heart-shaped cutter (or knife) to shape gnocchi.
- Optional ridges: Press lightly with a fork for sauce-gripping texture.
3. Cook the Gnocchi
- Boil: Cook in salted water for 2-3 mins (they float when ready).
- Reserve water: Save ½ cup pasta water for the sauce.
4. Make the Pink Sauce
- Sauté garlic: Melt butter + oil, cook garlic 1 min until fragrant.
- Tomato paste: Add and cook 2 mins (deepens flavor).
- Creamy base: Whisk in heavy cream, simmer 3 mins.
- Cheesy finish: Stir in Parmesan, then toss with gnocchi. Add pasta water if needed.
5. Serve & Garnish
- Top with extra Parmesan, herbs, and a kiss of black pepper.
- Pair with garlic bread and a crisp white wine!
Expert Tips for Perfect Gnocchi
✅ Potato hack: Bake potatoes instead of boiling for less moisture (better dough).
✅ Flour wisely: Too much = tough gnocchi; too little = sticky. Adjust as needed.
✅ Freeze for later: Dust uncooked gnocchi with flour, freeze on a tray, then bag.
✅ Sauce variations: Swap tomato paste for sun-dried tomato pesto or roasted red peppers.
Why This Dish Works for Date Night
- Interactive cooking: Shape hearts together for a fun activity.
- Elegant presentation: The pink sauce and hearts wow visually.
- Customizable: Add shrimp or mushrooms for extra luxury.
FAQs
Can I make gluten-free gnocchi?
Yes! Use cup-for-cup GF flour or rice flour.
How to store leftovers?
Keep sauce separate; reheat gnocchi in simmering water.
No cookie cutter?
Use a knife to cut small squares or roll into balls.
Final Thoughts
This heart-shaped gnocchi in pink sauce is romance on a plate—creamy, dreamy, and utterly delicious. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just because!
Will you try this recipe? Tag your creations! 💕