Don't Use these Mistakes While Making Homemade Pasta

Ever dreamed of making fresh, restaurant-quality pasta at home? But then reality hits—sticky dough, crumbly noodles, or a complete mess. A noodles making machine can help, but only if used correctly. Here’s how to avoid common pasta-making mistakes.

Mistake #1: Incorrect Dough Consistency

The perfect pasta starts with perfect dough.

Too Dry: If your dough cracks while rolling, it needs moisture.

Fix: Add water slowly, a teaspoon at a time. Knead well and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Too Wet: Sticky dough clings to the machine and tears.

Fix: Sprinkle semolina or all-purpose flour and knead until smooth.

Test: Press your finger into the dough—if the indentation slowly springs back, it's ready.

Mistake #2: Neglecting Your Machine

Your noodle machine needs proper care.

Skipping First Cleaning: Factory residue can affect your pasta.

Fix: Wipe rollers with a dry cloth before first use.

Uneven Rollers: Misaligned rollers make uneven pasta sheets.

Fix: Adjust them using the machine’s knobs.

Not Cleaning After Use: Dough buildup can jam the machine.

Fix: Brush off leftover dough and apply food-grade oil.

Mistake #3: Rushing the Rolling Process

Rolling pasta requires patience.

Starting Too Thin Too Soon: This weakens and tears the dough.

Fix: Start at the widest setting and gradually reduce thickness.

Not Folding Properly: Folding strengthens the dough.

Fix: Use a tri-fold or book-fold method before rolling again.

Mistake #4: Improper Cutting & Drying

The final steps matter.

Dull Cutters: Blunt blades tear noodles.

Fix: Sharpen or replace cutters regularly.

Cutting Too Thick: Different pasta shapes need different thicknesses.

Fix: Adjust the thickness for each type.

Drying Issues: Fast drying cracks pasta; slow drying causes mold.

Fix: Dry at room temperature with good air circulation.