Whipping up Homemade Pasta fills your kitchen with the simple joy of turning flour and eggs into tender, golden noodles. Just roll and cut the dough to your preferred shape for a truly personal touch. Whether you’re planning a special date night or a fun family cooking project, nothing beats the satisfaction of fresh pasta made entirely from scratch.
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Ingredients for Homemade Pasta
For the dough
- All-purpose flour – The base of any good pasta dough.
- Eggs – Room temperature is a must for the best consistency.
- Kosher salt – Skip table salt here; kosher adds just the right touch.
- Olive oil – A little goes a long way to add smoothness to the dough.
Cook Time for Homemade Pasta Recipe
I know that when you’re making a Homemade Pasta recipe, timing is everything. The active work is so satisfying, and the wait for that perfect noodle is absolutely worth it. Here’s a quick look at how your time will be spent.
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time (Kneading & Resting) | 50 minutes |
| Cook Time | 3 minutes |
| Total Time | 53 minutes |
While the dough is resting, it’s the perfect moment to whip up a quick sauce, like my favorite Caprese Pasta Salad, so everything is ready at the same time.
How to Make Homemade Pasta from Scratch
Creating this fresh egg pasta dough from scratch is a wonderfully tactile experience. I love the quiet rhythm of kneading a simple flour and egg dough on my countertop—it’s a little piece of kitchen magic.
Step 1: Create the Well
On a clean work surface, mound the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and create a wide well in the center with your hands. Crack the 3 large eggs, add the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and the 1 tablespoon of olive oil directly into the well.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Using a fork, gently beat the eggs and oil together, slowly incorporating flour from the inner walls of the well until a thick, shaggy dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes, incorporating any remaining flour, until the dough is completely smooth, elastic, and firm to the touch.
Step 4: Let it Rest
Wrap the dough ball tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, which will relax the gluten and make it easier to roll out.
Step 5: Roll it Out
Unwrap the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Using a floured rolling pin on a floured surface, roll one portion at a time into a thin sheet, about 1/8-inch thick or until you can almost see your fingers through it.
Step 6: Cut the Noodles
Lightly dust the rolled sheet with flour, loosely roll it into a log, and use a sharp knife to cut it into your desired width. Unfurl the cut noodles and toss them with a little flour to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Cook to Perfection
Cook the fresh pasta immediately in a large pot of generously salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Creating chewy fresh pasta sheets is all about this final, quick cook.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this process even smoother and the results even more delicious. Here are my favorite ways to personalize your Homemade Pasta.
- Flavor Swap: For a richer flavor and color, try substituting one of the eggs with an extra yolk. It makes for incredibly luxurious noodles.
- Diet Tweak: If you’re looking for a whole-grain option, you can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with semolina flour. It gives the pasta a lovely nutty taste and firmer bite, perfect for a hearty chicken pasta bake.
- Texture Fix: Don’t skip the rest time! I know it’s tempting to rush, but letting the dough rest is the secret to pasta that’s easy to roll out and wonderfully tender to eat.
- Storage Tip: To enjoy your handmade pasta with olive oil later, lay the cut noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet dusted with semolina and freeze them solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They cook directly from frozen, adding just a minute to the cooking time. They’re fantastic in a simple, savory dish like this caramelized onion pasta.
Homemade Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Fork
- Large pot
- Sharp knife
Method
- On a clean work surface, mound the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and create a wide well in the center with your hands. Crack the 3 large eggs, add the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and the 1 tablespoon of olive oil directly into the well.
- Using a fork, gently beat the eggs and oil together, slowly incorporating flour from the inner walls of the well until a thick, shaggy dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes, incorporating any remaining flour, until the dough is completely smooth, elastic, and firm to the touch.
- Wrap the dough ball tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, which will relax the gluten and make it easier to roll out.
- Unwrap the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Using a floured rolling pin on a floured surface, roll one portion at a time into a thin sheet, about 1/8-inch thick or until you can almost see your fingers through it.
- Lightly dust the rolled sheet with flour, loosely roll it into a log, and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1/4-inch wide strips for fettuccine or 1/8-inch wide strips for tagliatelle. Unfurl the cut noodles and toss them with a little flour to prevent sticking.
- Cook the fresh pasta immediately in a large pot of generously salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente).
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
When you create a Homemade Pasta dish from simple, real ingredients, you’re nourishing both body and soul. I love knowing exactly what’s in my food, and this recipe delivers wholesome goodness without any hidden surprises. Each ingredient plays a beautiful role in both flavor and nutrition.
Flour provides energy-building carbohydrates, while eggs contribute high-quality protein for muscle repair. Olive oil brings heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and a touch of salt balances electrolytes. Cooking savory homemade noodles like these allows you to control portion sizes and pair them with nutrient-rich sauces and veggies.
For a deeper look at flour types and their nutritional profiles, this flour selection guide offers wonderful insight. If you’re looking to keep your meal light and vibrant, try tossing your fresh pasta with my healthy pasta salad ingredients. For a cozy, protein-packed dinner, this chicken pasta is always a family favorite.
A Lighter Version of Homemade Pasta
I love adapting my recipes to fit different moods and needs, and this Homemade Pasta is wonderfully flexible. If you’re looking for a lighter touch, a few simple swaps can make this dish feel even more nourishing.
You can replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber and a nutty flavor. For an even lighter option, try using a blend of all-purpose and oat flour. If you prefer to reduce the egg content, you can use two whole eggs plus two egg whites instead of three whole eggs.
When it comes to sauces, I often choose a veggie-packed marinara or a light lemon-herb toss instead of cream-based options. My Caprese pasta salad is another fantastic light option that lets the fresh pasta shine. For more weeknight-friendly ideas that keep things balanced, this cheeseburger pasta uses lean meat and plenty of vegetables.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
In my kitchen, I believe everyone should be able to enjoy the comfort of a good meal, regardless of dietary needs. I’ve spent years adapting family recipes for loved ones with different health considerations, and I’ve learned that small tweaks can make a big difference.
For those watching their sugar intake or managing glucose levels, portion control is key. I serve smaller portions of pasta and load up the plate with non-starchy vegetables and lean proteins. When making Homemade Pasta for diabetic-friendly meals, I often use whole grain flour blends to create a lower glycemic index option.
For those avoiding added sugars, remember that the pasta itself contains no sugar—it’s what you pair with it that matters. I love creating sauces using natural, whole ingredients rather than pre-made sauces that might contain hidden sugars. A simple toss with olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and vegetables makes for a delicious sugar-conscious meal that everyone can enjoy.
How to Serve Homemade Pasta
I’ll never forget the first time I served my homemade pasta to my grandmother. She grew up in an Italian-American household, and her approval meant everything. When she took that first bite of my fettuccine with a simple marinara, her eyes lit up. “Now this,” she said, “tastes like love.” That moment captured exactly why I make Homemade Pasta—it’s not just food, it’s connection.
Fresh pasta deserves simple preparations that let its wonderful texture shine. I love tossing it with a quick garlic and olive oil sauce, or a fresh tomato basil blend. For heartier appetites, it’s fantastic with meat sauces or in baked dishes. The beauty of handmade pasta with olive oil is how versatile it is—from elegant dinner parties to casual family meals.
Pair your pasta with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and some crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. If you’re looking for something with bold flavors, my spicy garlic penne pasta shows how fresh pasta can handle stronger seasonings. For a truly special occasion, try using your fresh pasta sheets in this elegant pumpkin ravioli—it’s absolutely worth the extra effort.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made my share of mistakes while perfecting this Homemade Pasta recipe, and each one taught me something valuable. When you’re creating your fresh egg pasta dough from scratch, a few simple missteps can affect the final texture and flavor. But don’t worry—I’m here to help you avoid the common pitfalls I’ve encountered over the years.
One mistake I see often is not letting the dough rest properly. If you skip the resting phase, your pasta will fight you during rolling and likely tear. Another common error is adding too much flour during kneading—this can make your pasta tough rather than tender. Also, be careful with salt measurements; too little leaves the pasta bland, while too much can overwhelm the delicate flavor.
For those using a pasta machine, I recommend checking out these pasta shaping techniques to avoid uneven thickness. If you’re looking for more weeknight cooking tips, my chicken pasta bake includes helpful advice on timing and preparation. And for those who love bold flavors without the fuss, this caramelized onion pasta teaches you how to build depth without overcomplicating things.
Remember, making Homemade Pasta is as much about the journey as the destination. Some of my most cherished kitchen memories come from pasta-making sessions that didn’t go perfectly—like the time my nephew decided our kitchen needed a “flour snowstorm.” Those imperfect moments often create the best memories around the dinner table.
How to Store Homemade Pasta
I’ll never forget the first time I made a double batch of Homemade Pasta to share with my elderly neighbor, Mrs. Gable. She had just returned from hip surgery, and I wanted to make sure she had enough meals for the week. When I showed her how to properly store the fresh noodles, her eyes twinkled as she said, “This is better than any store-bought pasta I’ve ever tasted!” That moment taught me that proper storage preserves not just the pasta, but the love you put into making it.
If you’re planning to use your handmade pasta with olive oil within a day, you can simply dust it lightly with flour and coil it into nests on a baking sheet. For longer storage, freezing is your best friend. Arrange the pasta in single layers between parchment paper in airtight containers—this prevents sticking and makes it easy to take out just what you need.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored pasta, cook it straight from frozen—just add an extra minute to the cooking time. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out my manicotti recipe, which freezes beautifully. If you’re looking for creative ways to use leftover pasta, this chili cheese pasta turns yesterday’s noodles into today’s comfort food masterpiece.
Try This Homemade Pasta Yourself
I hope this guide inspires you to try making Homemade Pasta yourself—there’s something truly magical about transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. I remember teaching my daughter to make pasta when she was just seven years old, her small hands carefully kneading the dough while flour dusted her nose like freckles. That simple act of creating together became one of our favorite weekend traditions.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this homemade pasta recipe offers both simplicity and satisfaction. The joy of serving something made entirely by hand, with attention and care, transforms an ordinary meal into a cherished memory.
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, I encourage you to explore other Italian pasta dishes that showcase your newfound skills. Try your hand at my baked manicotti for a crowd-pleasing dinner, or experiment with this BBQ steak pasta for something unexpectedly delicious. For a truly special project, these stuffed chicken noodles combine two comfort foods in one incredible dish.
Remember, the best cooking comes from the heart, not just the recipe. Your homemade pasta might not be perfect the first time, but it will always be made with your own hands and your own love—and that’s what makes it truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make pasta from scratch at home?
Making pasta from scratch is simpler than you might think! Start with a simple flour and egg dough, knead until smooth, let it rest, then roll and cut into your desired shape. The key is taking your time with each step and enjoying the process of creating something beautiful from basic ingredients.
What flour is best for homemade pasta?
For traditional homemade pasta, I prefer all-purpose flour for its balance of protein and starch. Some pasta makers swear by “00” flour for extra smoothness, but all-purpose works beautifully for beginners. For whole grain options, you can substitute half with semolina or whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor.
How many eggs for 2 cups of flour for pasta?
For 2 cups of flour, I typically use 3 large eggs. This creates the perfect balance for a dough that’s easy to work with yet yields tender, chewy fresh pasta sheets. If your eggs are particularly large or small, you might need to adjust slightly—the dough should come together without being too sticky or dry.
What are the main ingredients in homemade pasta?
The beauty of homemade pasta lies in its simplicity! You only need four main ingredients: flour, eggs, olive oil, and salt. That’s it! From these basics, you can create endless variations of savory homemade noodles that far surpass anything you’ll find in a box.
Cozy Comfort Food Recipes To Try
Now that you’ve mastered homemade pasta, why not explore other comforting dishes that bring joy to the table?
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake – A family-friendly casserole that combines tender pasta with creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken.
Caramelized Onion Pasta – Sweet, slow-cooked onions transform simple ingredients into an unexpectedly elegant vegetarian dish.
BBQ Steak Pasta – A hearty fusion dish that brings smoky barbecue flavors to your pasta bowl in the most delicious way.
Pumpkin Ravioli – Seasonal and sophisticated, these delicate parcels filled with spiced pumpkin puree make any dinner special.
Stuffed Chicken Noodles – Imagine tender pasta wrapped around flavorful chicken filling—comfort food at its most creative.
Cheeseburger Pasta – All the classic burger flavors you love, transformed into a quick and satisfying pasta dish the whole family will adore.
