How to Make Fresh Pasta from Scratch: The Ultimate 4-Ingredient Homemade Pasta Recipe

Homemade Pasta Recipe: How to Make Fresh Pasta From Scratch with Only 4 Ingredients

Making pasta from scratch is a rewarding and surprisingly simple cooking project. If you’ve ever wondered how to make pasta at home, look no further! This easy pasta recipe is perfect for beginners and will yield fresh, delicious noodles every time. All you need are 4 basic ingredients, and in just over an hour, you’ll have homemade pasta that’s far superior to anything you can buy at the store.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the pasta dough to cooking fresh pasta in just a few minutes. Whether you’re using a pasta maker or a KitchenAid attachment, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started with this easy, homemade pasta recipe that only requires flour, eggs, olive oil, and salt.

Why You Should Make Homemade Pasta

Fresh pasta is a game changer. The texture is chewy and delicate, with a perfect bite, commonly known as “al dente.” The process of making pasta dough from scratch is incredibly satisfying, and the result is pasta with a rich, homemade flavor that is far superior to dried pasta. Plus, it’s customizable—whether you prefer spaghetti, fettuccine, or ravioli, you can shape it however you want.

Making homemade pasta is also an excellent way to spend time with loved ones. It’s easy to do together, and the smell of fresh pasta cooking is guaranteed to make your mouth water.

Ingredients for the Best Fresh Pasta

Before diving into the steps, let’s gather everything you need. This homemade pasta recipe calls for only four ingredients:

1. All-purpose flour – While you can use semolina or 00 flour, all-purpose flour works just fine for making fresh pasta. It produces a dough that’s chewy and holds its shape during cooking.
2. Eggs – Eggs are the key to creating a rich, soft, and elastic dough. They help bring everything together and add moisture to the pasta dough.
3. Olive oil – Just a small amount of olive oil enhances the flavor and helps keep the dough smooth and pliable.
4. Salt – Salt is crucial for flavor. It seasons the dough and ensures the pasta tastes amazing.

With these four ingredients, you’re ready to make fresh pasta from scratch!

How to Make Pasta Dough: Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make pasta dough that’s perfect every time:

Step 1: Create the Flour Nest

On a clean countertop or large cutting board, pile your all-purpose flour and make a well in the center. The well should be wide enough to hold your eggs. Think of this as your flour nest!

Step 2: Add the Eggs, Olive Oil, and Salt

Crack the eggs into the center of the well, and add the olive oil and salt. Gently break the eggs with a fork, being careful not to break the flour walls. This step allows you to start incorporating the flour into the egg mixture without making a mess.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

Slowly begin mixing the flour into the eggs, a little at a time, until the dough starts coming together. Use your hands to continue incorporating the flour, forming a shaggy ball of dough. At first, the dough may feel dry, but don’t worry, that’s normal.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes. The dough will initially feel dry and stiff, but it will come together with enough kneading. If the dough seems too dry, sprinkle it with a tiny bit of water. If it’s too sticky, add more flour. The goal is to create a smooth, elastic dough that isn’t too tacky.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Once the dough is smooth and elastic, shape it into a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap or cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Using a Pasta Maker or KitchenAid Attachment

Once the dough has rested, it’s time to roll it out! You can use a traditional pasta maker or a KitchenAid pasta attachment to get that perfect texture.

Using a Pasta Maker

If you’re using a manual pasta maker, dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour. Roll the dough into a thin sheet, working through progressively smaller settings until the dough reaches your desired thickness.

Using the KitchenAid Pasta Attachment

If you have a KitchenAid stand mixer with a pasta attachment, you’re in for an even easier process! Begin with the widest setting on the attachment and pass your dough through. Gradually reduce the setting and run the dough through the attachment a few times, until you reach your desired thickness.

Shaping the Pasta

At this point, you can shape your pasta however you like! Whether you prefer spaghetti, fettuccine, or even lasagna sheets, this dough is versatile. You can use a pasta cutter attachment or simply cut the dough with a knife.

Tip: Dusting with Flour

As you shape your pasta, remember to dust each layer with flour to prevent sticking. After rolling out each piece, lay it flat on a baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with flour before folding it in half. This ensures the noodles stay separate when it’s time to cook them.

How to Cook Fresh Pasta

Cooking fresh pasta is quick and simple. Since it’s made from scratch, fresh pasta cooks in just 1–2 minutes in boiling salted water. The texture is chewy and soft, but still al dente, with a satisfying bite.

Here’s how to cook your homemade noodles:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fresh pasta to the water and stir gently.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes, or until the pasta rises to the top and has a chewy texture.
4. Drain and serve with your favorite sauce.

Homemade Pasta Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve made your fresh pasta, the options are endless! Here are a few simple ideas for serving your homemade noodles:

1. Classic Marinara: Fresh pasta pairs perfectly with a rich, tangy marinara sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
2. Pesto: Toss your fresh pasta with homemade basil pesto for a fragrant, herby dish.
3. Olive Oil and Parmesan: For a simple yet delicious meal, drizzle olive oil over your pasta and top with grated Parmesan.
4. Alfredo Sauce: Fresh pasta is ideal for rich and creamy Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan.

Storage and Storage Tips for Fresh Pasta

If you’re not using your pasta right away, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply wrap the uncooked pasta in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. You can also freeze fresh pasta for longer storage. Just make sure to dust the pasta with flour to prevent it from sticking together.

Conclusion: The Best Homemade Pasta Recipe

Now you know how to make fresh pasta from scratch with only four simple ingredients. Homemade pasta is a fun and rewarding project that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The end result is pasta that’s far superior to anything you’ll find in a store. With a chewy, al dente texture and endless sauce pairing possibilities, making your own pasta is a must-try experience.

So gather your ingredients, grab your pasta maker or KitchenAid attachment, and get ready to make some delicious, homemade noodles that will impress everyone at the table!