Italy has blessed the culinary world with countless masterpieces, but few are as heartwarming and festive as Cappelletti pasta. With its dainty hat-like shape and rich, savory fillings, this traditional dish from the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions is a celebration on a plate—especially during holidays and family feasts.
Whether you’re an experienced pasta maker or diving into stuffed pasta for the first time, this guide walks you through everything you need: how to make Cappelletti from scratch, tasty variations, storage tips, and even where to buy it if you’re short on time.
Before we dive in—if you’re already exploring the beauty of Italian cooking, you might also enjoy learning about Fettuccine Bolognese or how to Master the Gnocchi Board for more handmade pasta adventures.
Table of Contents
What Is Cappelletti Pasta?
Cappelletti means “little hats” in Italian, and it’s easy to see why. These small, folded parcels of pasta dough are traditionally filled with seasoned meats, cheeses, or vegetables. While often compared to tortellini, Cappelletti are typically rounder and slightly larger. You’ll often find them simmered in a comforting brodo (broth), though they’re just as divine served with a buttery sage sauce.
Cappelletti pairs beautifully with rich flavors, making it a perfect match for sauces like Salmon Pesto or a creamy, herbed blend.
Why You’ll Love Making Cappelletti Pasta
- Tradition at Your Table: Experience centuries of Italian culinary artistry.
- Versatile Fillings: Customize with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Freezer Friendly: Batch-make for cozy dinners anytime.
- Wow-Worthy: Serve at dinner parties to impress guests with homemade flair.
Ingredients for Homemade Cappelletti Pasta
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or Italian “00” for silkier texture)
- 3 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling (Traditional Meat-Based):
- ½ lb ground pork
- ½ lb ground veal or chicken
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
Want a vegetarian twist? Scroll down for meat-free filling ideas!
How to Make Cappelletti Pasta (Step-by-Step)
1. Make the Pasta Dough
Form a mound with your flour, create a well in the center, and crack in your eggs. Add a pinch of salt, then gently incorporate flour into the eggs with a fork. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
Cook pork and veal in a skillet. Once cooled, mix with cheese, egg, garlic, and seasoning. Blend in a food processor until smooth.
3. Roll and Shape the Pasta
Roll the dough into thin sheets using a pasta roller. Cut into 2-inch squares. Place a small amount of filling in the center, fold into a triangle, press the edges to seal, then bring the two outer corners together to form the “hat” shape.
Want to master the art of shaping pasta? Check out our guide to Lumache Pasta for more fun techniques!
4. Cooking Cappelletti
- In Broth: Simmer in chicken or beef broth for 5–6 minutes.
- With Sauce: Boil in salted water for 4–5 minutes. Serve with melted butter, sage, or a light cream sauce.
Creative Variations
Cheese-Filled
Use a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, with lemon zest and black pepper.
Vegetarian Delight
Try sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or pumpkin purée for a hearty, meatless option.
Herbed Dough
Add finely chopped basil or parsley to your dough for a burst of flavor.
Naturally Colored Pasta
Use beet juice, spinach, or turmeric for a vibrant touch—just like in colorful dishes featured in our Soup Salads category.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Brodo: Ideal for chilly evenings—try using homemade or high-quality Chicken Bouillon for the best flavor.
- Butter & Sage: Simple and timeless.
- Truffle Oil: A luxurious touch.
- Pesto-Cream Fusion: Rich and fragrant.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate uncooked Cappelletti for up to 2 days.
- Freeze on a tray, then store in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Cook from Frozen: Just add 1–2 minutes to your cooking time.
Where to Buy Cappelletti Pasta
Don’t have time to make it from scratch? No problem! Try:
- Eataly – Premium imported Italian foods
- Amazon & Walmart – Dried or frozen options
- Local Italian Delis – Often carry fresh, handmade varieties
People Also Ask
Where can I buy Cappelletti pasta?
If you don’t have the time to make Cappelletti from scratch, you’re in luck there are plenty of options for buying it ready-made. Look for it at:
- Italian Grocery Stores or Delis: Many carry fresh, handmade versions—especially around the holidays.
- Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon, Walmart, and Eataly offer a range of dried or frozen Cappelletti varieties. Eataly, in particular, is known for its authentic Italian imports.
- Local Specialty Markets: Gourmet food stores or European-style delis often stock artisanal pasta products, and some even allow pre-orders for special occasions.
Pro Tip: Always check the ingredients list when buying pre-packaged Cappelletti to ensure you’re getting quality fillings like real cheeses and meats.
Can Cappelletti pasta be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! While traditional Cappelletti is meat-filled, vegetarian versions are just as flavorful and widely celebrated—especially in regions like Marche and Umbria where cheese-based fillings are common.
Here are some meatless filling ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Three-Cheese Blend: Ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella, seasoned with lemon zest and cracked pepper.
- Sautéed Mushrooms & Spinach: Earthy and hearty, perfect for pairing with brodo or butter sauce.
- Pumpkin or Butternut Squash: A northern Italian favorite, often accented with nutmeg and sage.
- Herbed Ricotta with Walnuts: Creamy and crunchy with a savory punch.
For more meat-free mealtime ideas, explore our comforting Soup Salads category.
What’s the best sauce for Cappelletti?
Cappelletti’s neutral pasta and rich filling make it incredibly adaptable when it comes to sauces. Depending on the filling, here are top sauce pairings:
- Classic Brodo (Broth): A light chicken or beef broth is the traditional way to serve meat-filled Cappelletti.
- Butter and Sage: The go-to sauce for cheese or pumpkin fillings—rich, aromatic, and simple.
- Cream Sauces: Think garlic cream, mushroom cream, or Parmesan béchamel for a luxurious twist.
- Pesto Cream Fusion: Mix your favorite pesto with a splash of cream for a vibrant, herbaceous sauce.
- Mild Tomato Sauce: A subtle tomato base can complement veggie fillings like spinach or mushrooms.
Want to get creative? Our Salmon Pesto Pasta recipe offers great inspiration for building flavor-forward sauces.
Can you freeze homemade Cappelletti pasta?
Yes—Cappelletti is perfect for freezing and makes meal prep a breeze. Here’s how to do it right:
- Freeze Raw: Arrange uncooked Cappelletti in a single layer on a tray. Freeze until firm (1–2 hours).
- Store: Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
- Cook from Frozen: Drop directly into boiling broth or salted water. No need to thaw—just cook 1–2 minutes longer.
Bonus tip: Want to build a rich base for your broth? Our guide on Chicken Bouillon shows you how to pack flavor into every bite.
Conclusion: Bring the Taste of Italy to Your Kitchen
Crafting Cappelletti at home is a soulful journey into Italian cuisine. From making silky dough to folding those adorable “little hats,” every step connects you with culinary tradition. Whether you’re filling them with seasoned meat or opting for creamy cheese and vegetables, Cappelletti pasta is a dish that never fails to impress.
Ready to keep the pasta inspiration flowing? Take a look at this delightful Salmon Pesto Pasta recipe, or explore tips for mastering other handmade pasta shapes like Gnocchi.
For even more recipe ideas, inspiration, and delicious pasta pairings, don’t miss:
Let your Cappelletti journey begin—happy cooking! 🇮🇹🍝