3- Cooking Making Spaghetti & Lasagna

A Practical and Delicious Dive into Italy’s Pasta Traditions in Florence

When visiting Florence, few experiences capture the essence of Italian culture quite like a hands-on pasta-making class. For around $75, you’ll spend roughly three hours in the lively San Frediano neighborhood, learning to craft two iconic dishes: spaghetti and lasagna. Guided by friendly experts—such as Melina or Milena—you’ll get practical tips, regional secrets, and plenty of chances to get your hands flour-dusted.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines history and technique, giving you deeper insight into Italian culinary traditions while also letting you enjoy the process. Plus, the chance to sit down and taste your creations paired with Tuscan organic wine makes for a memorable, satisfying evening.

A possible consideration is the limited duration—three hours can fly by, but it’s enough time for a comprehensive experience. Also, since the tour is capped at just ten people, it remains intimate and friendly, ideal for those who enjoy small-group settings.

This class suits travelers who want more than a quick dinner. It’s perfect if you’re eager to learn authentic recipes, meet fellow food lovers, or bring home some real Italian cooking skills. If you love engaging with local cuisine in a relaxed setting, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Italian dishes: Master the art of making traditional spaghetti and lasagna.
• Hands-on experience: Get practical tips, including dough rolling and sauce preparation.
• Local setting: Enjoy the class in a well-kept, cozy space in Florence’s San Frediano district.
• Tasting and pairing: Sample your dishes with excellent Tuscan organic wine and a chocolate dessert.
• Recipe handouts: Leave with recipes and secrets to recreate your pasta at home.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 10 participants for personalized attention and fun.

A Deep Dive into the Florence Pasta Class

Location and Atmosphere

Set in the charming, well-maintained San Frediano neighborhood, the class takes place in a comfortable and inviting space that exudes local character. This area is known for its lively vibe, colorful streets, and authentic Florentine charm, making it a perfect backdrop for your culinary adventure. We appreciated the clean, cozy environment, which makes learning relaxed and enjoyable.

The Itinerary: what to Expect

The class begins with a brief historical and theoretical introduction—a chance to understand why pasta holds such a special place in Italian life and how regional influences shape recipes. This sets the stage for the practical part, where you’ll actually make your own pasta.

Making Pasta from Scratch: You’ll learn how to prepare spaghetti dough using simple ingredients like flour, eggs, water, and milk. The instructor will teach you the Italian secrets behind perfect pasta—think about technique, timing, and the right consistency. Expect to use a rolling pin to shape the lasagna dough, which adds an authentic touch many other classes skip.

Sauce and Filling Prep: The class includes preparing Bolognese sauce—a slow-cooked, flavorful meat sauce—and a classic béchamel, which is used in lasagna. The instructor offers tips on how to balance flavors and cook the sauces to perfection, turning simple ingredients into something special.

Assembling and Cooking: Once the pasta and sauces are ready, you’ll assemble your lasagna, layering dough, sauce, and cheese. Meanwhile, the group will prepare spaghetti to boil and serve together. During this process, everyone gets a chance to ask questions and observe techniques, making it a very interactive experience.

Tasting and Wine Pairing: After cooking, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor, along with Tuscan organic wine—a highlight for many, as the wine complements the food perfectly. Plus, a delicious chocolate dessert caps off the meal, making the entire session feel like a true Italian feast.

Recipe Handouts: At the end, each participant receives recipes and insider tips, so you can impress friends back home with authentic pasta recipes.

Guides and Review Highlights

Multiple reviewers highlighted their guides’ warmth and expertise. Christen_S called Melina “the best,” emphasizing her accommodating nature and making the experience fun. Others praised Milena for her knowledge and patience, which turns a potentially intimidating process into an enjoyable lesson.

The small group size—max 10—means plenty of individual attention, and many reviews mention how instructors like Sartone and Francesca make complex steps seem straightforward. As one reviewer noted, “Her directions were easy to follow, and the results of our cooking was superb.”

The Experience’s Value

While the class may seem modest in price, the value is substantial. You’re not only learning recipes but also understanding the techniques behind Italy’s most famous dishes. The inclusion of a local wine and a sweet ending makes it a well-rounded experience. Plus, the small group setting fosters camaraderie, often resulting in friendly conversations and shared laughter.

What We Think Could Be Better

A few reviewers pointed out the address could be clearer, and since the experience lasts around three hours, some might prefer a longer session if they want to dive deeper into Italian cuisine or explore other dishes. Also, the wine, while good, is described as not unlimited, so if you love wine, you might want to bring your own or plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This

This class appeals to travelers who want an interactive, authentic experience rather than just observing. It’s ideal for food lovers, families, or couples — especially those who enjoy hands-on activities and sharing meals together. It’s also perfect for anyone eager to take home real Italian recipes and impress friends with homemade pasta.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this Florence pasta-making class means investing in more than just a meal. It’s about connecting with Italian culture through its most beloved culinary traditions. The experience’s small-group setting, combined with expert guidance and tasting, ensures you’ll leave with new skills, happy memories, and maybe even a new favorite dinner recipe.

You’ll love how straightforward and fun it is to make authentic pasta, especially knowing you’re doing it in a city renowned for its cuisine. Plus, the added bonus of local wine and a sweet treat makes it feel like a proper Italian celebration.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this class offers genuine value—an engaging, flavorful, and memorable way to spend part of your Florence trip. Perfect for anyone who wants to get their hands flour-dusted and walk away with more than just photographs— but with actual skills to bring home.

FAQ

How long is the pasta-making class?
It lasts around 3 hours, including preparation, cooking, and tasting.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll make two classic Italian dishes: spaghetti and lasagna.

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, and guides like Milena and Francesca make complex steps easy to follow.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get hands-on instruction, recipes, tastings of your dishes, and Tuscan organic wine.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Where does the class take place?
In a well-kept, comfortable space in Florence’s San Frediano district, starting at Piazza del Carmine.

Is the group size large or small?
It’s a small group, capped at 10 people, to ensure a more personal and interactive experience.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.