Pasta Maker Doesn’t Cut – What To Do?

Is there anything worse than getting your hopes up for homemade pasta just to discover that your pasta maker isn't cutting? Don't worry, we're here to help. We've assembled this step-by-step- guide to help you get to the root of the problem and get dinner on the table.

If your pasta maker isn't cutting, run through this list to troubleshoot the issue:

  1. Check your dough's consistency
  2. Let the dough rest
  3. Dust the sheet with flour
  4. Purchase a new attachment
  5. Call the manufacturer

This guide will help you get that tantalizing meal back on track.  Keep reading for detailed instructions on each step. We will also discuss things like cleaning your pasta maker and loads of other tips and tricks to keep your maker in tip-top shape.

Making homemade pasta noodles with pasta maker on kitchen table with ingredients around, Pasta Maker Doesn't Cut - What To Do?

Troubleshooting Steps

Let's get into the details of how to troubleshoot that malfunctioning pasta maker. Just keep reading!

Check Your Dough's Consistency

The dough should not be able to stick to your hands. If wet dough is inserted into the maker, it won't cut very well. When you find yourself with partially cut dough that requires you to manually tear the strips of pasta by hand, then the dough is still a little too wet.

If your dough is too wet, give it time to dry, or add more flour. When your dough is too dry you will be able to see some cracks appearing in the sheet. If your dough is too dry, add some more egg or water.

Let the Dough Rest

If you checked the consistency and it seems right, the next step is to let the dough rest. To properly rest your pasta dough, place it in a bowl, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. The dough will need to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

You can rest your dough in the fridge as well, but this method will require at least 6 hours and you will need to let it revert back to room temperature before you can begin rolling it. Resting the dough makes it more pliable and easier for the machine to roll, grip, and cut.

Dust The Sheet With Flour

Once the dough is rested and rolled out, lightly dust each side with some additional flour. Applying a light amount of flour to each side of the sheet will give you a cleaner cut. If you followed these steps and have properly prepared your dough, but your pasta maker still won't cut, then it's time to look at the machine itself.

Purchase A New Cutter Attachment

Regular use will dull the cutter attachments, and they may just need replacement at this point. Most pasta makers are not supposed to be exposed to water. If someone accidentally washed the maker or its attachments, the damage is irreversible. Make sure you purchase attachments that will work with your current machine.

KitchenAid Pasta Maker Attachment

Click here to see more on Amazon.

Marcato Linguine Attachment

Click here to see more on Amazon.

Call The Manufacturer

If your machine still isn't performing to your standards, contact the manufacturer. Many companies that produce pasta makers are happy to help address these issues and will walk you through repair or replacement options. 

How Do You Lubricate A Pasta Maker?

Check the manual to see what type of oil the manufacturer recommends using. For most machines, food-grade mineral oil is advised. You will only need 2 or 3 drops of oil to provide ample lubrication. Aim for the gears on either side of the rollers. Depending on your model, you may not need to take the machine apart.

Food Grade Mineral Oil

Click here to see more on Amazon.

Can I Sharpen a Pasta Maker?

In general, it is not advised to attempt sharpening your pasta maker. There are people that will recommend running tin foil through the maker to sharpen the blades, but you should contact the manufacturer to see what they recommend before you risk causing further damage.

It seems that once the pasta maker becomes this dull it's time to purchase a new one. So, if you're in the market for a new pasta maker, check out our article that discusses the 5 Best Pasta Machines You Should Be Looking Into.

How Do You Take Apart A Pasta Maker?

Making homemade pasta noodles with pasta maker on kitchen table with ingredients around, Pasta Maker Doesn't Cut - What To Do?

It is highly discouraged to attempt disassembling an electric pasta maker. Hand-crank models are fairly simple to take apart; however, doing this can risk voiding your warranty. Contact the manufacturer before you begin disassembly to ensure that you're fully aware of any implications. There are a lot of small pieces, too, so make sure to keep them together.

Be very cautious when taking apart and reassembling your pasta maker, and double-check your user manual to verify what size tools you will need.

  1. Gather your tools.
  2. Prepare your workspace.
  3. Make sure the machine is on the correct setting.
  4. Take off the dial.
  5.  Remove the gears.
  6. Take out the blades.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You will need:

  • Protective eyewear
  • Work gloves
  • Hammer
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Wrench
  • Socket wrench
  • Bowl to keep small parts in

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Clear a large, flat surface area to work on. Lay down newspaper or plastic to protect your surface from scratches and grease. Grab a bowl to place the small parts in so they don't get lost. You may want to set up a lamp or get a flashlight to help you see better. Wear old clothes because the grease inside the machine can stain fabric permanently.

Step 3: Make Sure The Machine Is On The Correct Setting

You will want to consult the user's manual to make sure you have the dial in the correct position before you start disassembling the machine. The setting varies depending on the brand, but you ultimately want the machine set to the widest available option.

Step 3: Remove The Dial

Lay the machine down with the dial pointing up towards you. Make sure the machine is stable and secure before you begin. Wedge your flathead screwdriver into the seam between the dial frame and the dial cap, then use your hammer to gently tap the end of the screwdriver until the dial cap comes loose. Be careful, or you may end up denting the cap.

Step 4: Remove The Gears

With the dial cap removed, you should be able to see the screw holding the side panel in place. Use your Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw in the side panel, then use your flathead to pry the panel up, exposing the gears. It's crucial to avoid causing any damage to these gears, as they are very difficult to replace. To remove the gears, you will need to use your socket wrench very carefully.

Step 5: Remove The Blades

Now that the gears have been safely removed, you should be able to see the screws that hold the panel on the opposite side in place, as well as the screws for the bottom panel. Removing these panels will give you access to the blades, scrapers, and rollers. The blades will be very sharp, so use extreme caution when working with these parts.

What's The Best Way To Clean A Pasta Maker?

Young woman chef prepares homemade pasta from durum semolina flour

Now that you have your pasta maker disassembled, it's the perfect time to give it a good thorough cleaning. Always check your user manual to verify the best way to clean your pasta maker. In most cases, it's in your best interest to completely avoid using any water, otherwise, your maker can begin to rust. Instead, use a dry cotton cloth or a stiff-bristled cleaning brush to avoid rust.

If you need more help with cleaning your pasta maker, read our blog Can You Put A Pasta Maker In The Dishwasher? which contains an in-depth guide on the best methods to keep your machine clean.

Let's Eat.

Now that you know all the tricks to keep your pasta maker running smoothly it's time to make some delicious food.

Now that you've got your pasta maker cutting again, you may be interested in reading "Is Making Pasta Cheaper Than Buying?" from our blog.

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