Introduction to Sacchetti Pasta
Sacchetti pasta, affectionately known as “beggar’s purses,” is a gourmet gem of Italian cuisine. These charming pasta pouches are filled with creamy cheeses, savory herbs, or meats, combining the finesse of stuffed pasta with the warmth of homemade comfort food.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or an eager foodie, this guide will walk you through mastering sacchetti pasta from scratch—plus creative variations, expert cooking tips, and sauce pairings that elevate every bite.
Looking to expand your pasta repertoire? Don’t miss our guide to cappelletti pasta—another delicious stuffed pasta you’ll love.
What is Sacchetti Pasta?
Sacchetti pasta (from the Italian word “sacchetto,” meaning “little bag”) is a type of filled pasta shaped like small sacks. Most commonly stuffed with cheeses like ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella, it may also include fresh herbs or finely chopped meats.
This pasta shines when paired with buttery or cream-based sauces and is often seen on Northern Italian tables. Its ruffled pouch shape makes it not just delicious but also eye-catching.
Craving another Italian classic? Try our fettuccine bolognese for a meaty twist.
Ingredients You Need for Homemade Sacchetti Pasta
Pasta Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- ½ tsp salt
- A drizzle of olive oil (optional)
Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ cup mozzarella or fontina
- Chopped herbs: basil, thyme, or parsley
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Gluten-free? You can adapt this dish easily with our tips from the gluten-free lasagna noodles recipe.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Sacchetti Pasta
1. Make the Dough
On a clean surface, form the flour into a mound, add eggs and salt in the center, and mix gradually. Knead until smooth and elastic. Wrap and rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
Mix the cheeses, herbs, and seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust salt.
3. Roll the Dough
Using a pasta machine or rolling pin, roll dough into thin sheets. Aim for a texture similar to our tips in Mastering the Gnocchi Board.
4. Cut & Fill
Cut into 2.5-inch squares. Add a small spoon of filling in the center, gather corners, and pinch tightly to form a pouch.
5. Cook the Pasta
Boil in salted water for 3–4 minutes until they float.
6. Add Sauce & Serve
Toss with your favorite sauce—cream-based, sage butter, or tomato basil.
Creative Variations of Sacchetti Pasta
Sacchetti is incredibly versatile. Try these delicious combos:
- Pumpkin & Ricotta: Add nutmeg and cinnamon for fall flavors.
- Mushroom & Goat Cheese: Perfect with white wine cream sauce.
- Truffle & Fontina: Gourmet and decadent.
- Vegan Option: Use almond ricotta and nutritional yeast for dairy-free delight.
- Salmon Pesto: Inspired by our salmon pesto pasta—combine flaked salmon with ricotta for a seafood version.
Best Sauces to Pair with Sacchetti Pasta
- Brown Butter & Sage – Simple and fragrant.
- Garlic Cream Sauce – Smooth, garlicky, and indulgent.
- Tomato Basil – Bright and summery.
- Pesto Cream – Earthy, herbal depth.
- Mushroom Marsala – Deep, rich, and savory.
Where to Buy Sacchetti Pasta
Not in the mood to make it yourself? You can often find sacchetti in:
- Specialty Italian grocers
- Gourmet shops like Eataly
- Some Whole Foods stores
- Online at Amazon or iGourmet
Look for fresh or refrigerated options for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sacchetti Pasta
- Don’t overfill—this makes sealing tricky.
- Use water or egg wash to seal the pouches tightly.
- Dust with semolina to avoid sticking.
- Freeze extras individually before storing together.
- Cook in small batches to avoid tearing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet ricotta: Drain it to avoid soggy pasta.
- Skipping dough rest: Makes rolling harder.
- Overcooking: 3–4 minutes is ideal.
- Loose seals: Lost filling means wasted effort.
Health-Conscious Tips
If you’re watching what you eat, try these tweaks:
- Whole wheat flour for dough = more fiber
- Low-fat ricotta to cut calories
- Add spinach or kale for nutrients
- Air-fry small sacchetti for a crisp, appetizer-style treat
FAQs About Sacchetti Pasta
Is sacchetti pasta the same as tortellini?
Not exactly. While both are filled Italian pastas, their shapes and traditional uses are quite different. Tortellini is ring-shaped—almost like a small doughnut—and often served in broth, especially in traditional Italian soups. In contrast, sacchetti (meaning “little sacks” in Italian) are gathered at the top to form a pouch or purse shape. Sacchetti typically holds a creamy cheese filling and pairs beautifully with rich or herby sauces, making it more of a show-stopper on the plate.
Can you freeze sacchetti pasta?
Yes, sacchetti pasta freezes very well, making it a convenient make-ahead option. To do it right, lay the uncooked pasta on a tray in a single layer and freeze for a few hours. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. When ready to cook, drop them directly into boiling water from frozen—just add an extra minute or so to the cook time. This method keeps their shape intact and ensures they don’t stick together.
What’s the best cheese to use in sacchetti filling?
The classic choice is ricotta, known for its creamy and mild flavor. However, for a more dynamic filling, consider a blend of ricotta, mozzarella (for stretch), and Parmesan (for depth and saltiness). Want to get fancy? Add fontina for a melty texture, or a touch of goat cheese or blue cheese for something bold and gourmet. Enhance the mix with finely chopped herbs like basil or parsley and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
What sauces work best with sacchetti pasta?
The beauty of sacchetti lies in its compatibility with a variety of sauces. Some top pairings include:
- Brown butter with sage – a nutty, aromatic classic
- Garlic cream sauce – rich and indulgent
- Tomato basil sauce – light, fresh, and perfect for summer
- Pesto cream – earthy and herbal
- Mushroom or truffle cream sauces – decadent and elegant
Because sacchetti is already rich from the filling, a balanced sauce helps round out the dish without overwhelming it.
Why You’ll Love Making Sacchetti Pasta
Sacchetti isn’t just delicious—it’s a joyful experience. The hands-on process, the endless filling options, and that first creamy bite make it an unforgettable dish. Perfect for dinner parties, family cooking nights, or showing off your pasta-making skills.
Want more gourmet pasta inspiration? Check out our Italian pasta collection!
🍝 Time to Roll Some Dough!
So grab your rolling pin and your favorite apron—whether you’re going classic with cheese and herbs or wild with truffle and goat cheese, sacchetti pasta is your new go-to gourmet treat.