Gnocchetti con Ragù

Gnocchetti con Ragù is a traditional pasta dish from the Marche region of central Italy, particularly associated with the town of Sarnano. The dish features small, hand-rolled potato or semolina dumplings (gnocchetti) served with a slow-simmered meat ragù. Key ingredients for the gnocchetti include potatoes, flour, and egg, while the ragù typically combines beef or pork, pancetta, tomato passata, red wine, and aromatic vegetables like carrot, celery, and onion. A great version is distinguished by light, pillowy gnocchetti that hold their shape without being dense, paired with a deeply flavorful ragù that has been cooked for several hours to develop richness and a velvety texture. Regional variations exist across Italy: in Emilia-Romagna, the ragù may be more buttery and less tomato-forward, while in Naples it often includes a larger proportion of pork. Some versions of gnocchetti incorporate spinach or ricotta into the dough for a softer bite. At Agriturismo Le Querce in Sarnano, the dish is prepared in the local tradition, as noted by creator JustUs, who highlights the venue’s emphasis on rustic, homemade quality. The combination of tender dumplings and a slowly stewed meat sauce makes Gnocchetti con Ragù a comforting and hearty meal that showcases the region’s culinary heritage.