Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi
Vincisgrassi alla marchigiana is a sumptuous baked layered pasta, golden on top and creamy inside. Thin sheets of egg pasta alternate with a rich, deeply flavored ragù, often enriched with giblets and mixed meats, and a velvety béchamel sauce. The result is an intense, aromatic, and enveloping dish, with contrasts between the crisp gratin crust and the succulent softness within. It is the great first course of festive meals in the Marche, served steaming at the center of the table.
Why it matters
In Ancona and across the Marche, vincisgrassi are much more than a lasagna: they represent the cuisine of celebration and hospitality. Every family guards its own version of the ragù, a sign of a home tradition passed down from generation to generation. In the city’s historic restaurants, it remains one of the most emblematic and sought-after dishes.
Origin story
Its origins date back at least to the eighteenth century and are documented in the cookbook of the Ancona chef Antonio Nebbia (1779). A legend links the name to the Austrian general Windisch-Graetz, celebrated after the siege of Ancona during the Napoleonic wars. Over time the recipe became established as the Marche’s version of lasagna, characterized by a more complex ragù often enriched with giblets.
Typical ingredients
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Questions about Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi
What is Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi?
Vincisgrassi alla marchigiana is a sumptuous baked layered pasta, golden on top and creamy inside. Thin sheets of egg pasta alternate with a rich, deeply flavored ragù, often enriched with giblets and mixed meats, and a velvety béchamel sauce. The result is an intense, aromatic, and enveloping dish, with contrasts between the crisp gratin crust and the succulent softness within. It is the great first course of festive meals in the Marche, served steaming at the center of the table.
Where to eat Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi in Ancona?
Look for traditional trattorias and restaurants in the historic centre of Ancona that value local products and traditional recipes.
What are the ingredients of Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi?
The main ingredients of Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi are: sfoglie di pasta all’uovo, ragù di carni miste, rigaglie di pollo, besciamella, parmigiano grattugiato.
How much does Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi cost in Ancona?
The price of Marchigiana-style vincisgrassi in Ancona is typically €10–16.
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