Homemade egg noodles are the epitome of comfort food, bringing a fresh and tender texture that elevates any dish. With just five ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy the satisfaction of making pasta from scratch. Perfect for soups, casseroles, or a simple buttery side dish, these noodles are as versatile as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you probably already have.
- Customizable: Control the thickness and shape to suit any dish.
- Quick cooking: Fresh noodles cook in just a few minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect for soups, creamy sauces, or simple herb and butter preparations.
- Rewarding: Experience the joy of crafting fresh pasta at home.
Ingredients
- 1 whole egg
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole egg, egg yolks, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture, stirring with a fork or your hands, until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too dry, add water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface to your desired thickness (thin for soups, thicker for hearty dishes).
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips to create noodles. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- To cook, boil the noodles in salted water for 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness. Drain and serve with your favorite sauce, in soup, or simply with butter and herbs.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 45 minutes (including resting time)
- Cooking Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
- Calories: ~180 per serving
Variations
- Herbed noodles: Add a teaspoon of dried herbs like parsley or thyme to the dough for added flavor.
- Whole wheat option: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of red chili flakes for noodles with a hint of spice.
- Flavored noodles: Incorporate spinach puree, beet puree, or squid ink into the dough for vibrant, colored noodles.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these noodles suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Uncooked noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat cooked noodles, briefly warm them in a saucepan with a bit of butter or sauce over low heat.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the wrapped dough for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling out.
What’s the best flour for egg noodles?
All-purpose flour works well, but you can use 00 flour for an even finer texture.
Can I use a pasta machine?
Absolutely! A pasta machine can make rolling and cutting the noodles easier and more consistent.
Do I need to dry the noodles before cooking?
No, fresh noodles can go straight into boiling water. However, if you prefer to dry them, let them air dry for 1-2 hours.
How do I keep noodles from sticking together?
Dust them lightly with flour after cutting to prevent sticking.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, you can add garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, or herbs directly into the dough for extra flavor.
Are these noodles good for soup?
Yes, roll them thin for soups, and they will cook beautifully in broths.
How do I freeze uncooked noodles?
Place the noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients. Be sure to knead the dough thoroughly for consistency.
What dishes pair well with these noodles?
These noodles are perfect for chicken noodle soup, beef stroganoff, or tossed with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.
Conclusion
Homemade egg noodles are a game-changer for any home cook. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create fresh, tender pasta that enhances soups, casseroles, and main dishes. Whether you roll them thin for a delicate texture or thicker for a heartier bite, these noodles are versatile and utterly satisfying. Try them once, and they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!