Homemade Italian pasta recipes from nonna are treasures of Italian cuisine. These time-tested techniques turn flour, eggs, and water into silky, satisfying pasta by hand — the same way Italian grandmothers have done for generations. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy the meditative process of kneading dough, these recipes deliver unforgettable results.
Why Homemade Italian Pasta Recipes Are Special
Homemade Italian pasta recipes hold a unique place in Italian homes. Moreover, they are about more than food; they represent family, love, and continuity. For example, making pasta by hand allows you to slow down, connect with tradition, and experience the authentic flavors that nonna has known her whole life.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Italian Pasta Recipes
- Flour: 00 flour for delicate egg pasta or semolina flour for rustic, water-based doughs.
- Eggs: Fresh, high-quality eggs add richness and golden color.
- Water: Essential for semolina doughs.
- Salt: Just a pinch in the dough, but don’t forget to salt your boiling water generously.
Nonna’s Favorite Homemade Italian Pasta Recipes
Tagliatelle All’Uovo (Egg Pasta)
This silky, ribbon-shaped pasta is made by combining 00 flour and eggs, then rolling the dough thin and cutting it into wide strips. It pairs beautifully with classic ragù or a simple butter-and-sage sauce.
Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci
Delicate stuffed pasta pockets filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan. Traditionally served with melted butter and sage, these are a nonna-approved comfort dish.
Pici Toscani
Rustic hand-rolled pasta made only with flour and water. Its thick, chewy strands are ideal for robust sauces like aglione (garlic and tomato) or cacio e pepe.
How to Make Homemade Italian Pasta Step by Step
Step 1: Make the Dough
Place the flour on a clean work surface, creating a well in the center. Crack in the eggs (or add water if using semolina dough). Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the wet center, pulling flour from the edges. As the mixture thickens, use your hands to form a rough dough ball.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it firmly for 8–10 minutes, pushing and folding until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, which gives the pasta its signature bite. Remember, nonna says: the more love you put into kneading, the better the pasta.
Step 3: Rest the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
Rolling, Shaping, and Cooking the Pasta
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Unwrap the dough and divide it into portions. Use a rolling pin or a pasta machine to roll the dough thin, adjusting the thickness according to the pasta type (thinner for tagliatelle, slightly thicker for stuffed pasta). Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Shape the Pasta
Cut the dough into ribbons for tagliatelle, fill and seal it for ravioli, or roll into rustic strands for pici. Each shape has its own beauty and charm. As nonna often says, perfection isn’t required — it’s the handmade character that makes homemade Italian pasta recipes so special.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Fresh pasta cooks quickly — usually within 2–4 minutes. Therefore, keep an eye on it! Taste a piece to check for doneness, then drain gently.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Toss the cooked pasta immediately with your chosen sauce. For example, use ragù for tagliatelle, butter and sage for ravioli, or garlic and oil for pici. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
Nonna’s Top Tips for Homemade Italian Pasta Recipes
- Use the right flour: 00 flour gives delicate texture, semolina adds rustic bite.
- Rest the dough: Skipping the rest period leads to tough pasta.
- Roll it evenly: Uneven dough creates uneven cooking.
- Cook in plenty of salted water: The pasta needs space and seasoning.
Wine and Pairings for Homemade Italian Pasta Recipes
- Wine: Chianti, Sangiovese, or a crisp Pinot Grigio.
- Side: A light arugula salad with lemon dressing.
- Dessert: Tiramisu, panna cotta, or fresh fruit.
Learn More (Outbound Link)
To deepen your knowledge of homemade Italian pasta recipes, visit Wikipedia’s pasta page for history, regional variations, and fascinating facts.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Italian pasta recipes from nonna are a celebration of time, family, and tradition. By making pasta by hand, you carry forward the heart and soul of Italian cooking. As a result, you’re not just making a meal — you’re making memories.
For more inspiration, explore our Italian pasta collection and uncover even more classic recipes.
