Tasting Your Way Through Tucson: A 2-Hour Pasta Making Class with Chef Matthew
If you’re craving a hands-on culinary experience that combines creativity, flavor, and a dash of local charm, this pasta-making class in Tucson might be just the ticket. Led by Chef Matthew, this 2-hour class is designed to teach even beginners how to craft vibrant tri-color pasta from scratch—no pre-made dough or boxed noodles here. It promises more than just cooking skills; it offers a fun, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for photos and tasting.
We’re drawn to this experience for three main reasons: the chance to learn a new skill in a relaxed setting, the beautiful use of fresh ingredients to make strikingly colorful pasta, and the fact that it’s beginner-friendly while still providing real culinary value. The only consideration? It’s a relatively short class, so if you’re hoping for an in-depth culinary deep dive, this might feel a bit light. Still, it’s ideal for foodies, couples, or groups looking for a lively, interactive activity that ends with a delicious homemade meal.
This class would suit travelers who enjoy cooking, exploring local flavors, or simply want a memorable activity that’s a break from traditional sightseeing. It’s also perfect if you’re after a fun, informal way to connect with fellow travelers and learn a skill you can recreate at home.
Good To Know

- Hands-on experience: You get to knead, roll, cut, and shape pasta yourself.
- Colorful and fresh: Learn how to incorporate spinach and tomatoes for vibrant doughs.
- Beginner-friendly: No previous experience needed, with expert guidance from Chef Matthew.
- All materials provided: The chef supplies all ingredients and equipment, making it easy to focus on the fun.
- Flexible for dietary needs: The class can accommodate various dietary considerations if notified in advance.
- Great value: For $75, you receive not just the skills but recipes to recreate at home.
Introduction to the Tucson Pasta Class

Imagine turning a simple dinner night into an artful, colorful culinary adventure. That’s exactly what this pasta-making class offers—an opportunity to step into the kitchen and craft gorgeous tri-color pasta from scratch. Hosted in Tucson, a city known for its vibrant food scene, Chef Matthew guides you through every step with patience and enthusiasm, making the process accessible for all.
What sets this class apart is its focus on fresh ingredients and visual appeal. You won’t find pre-made noodles here—just a base egg dough, blended with fresh spinach and tomatoes to create striking green and red varieties. The class’s relaxed pace and expert instruction promise a satisfying experience, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home cook eager to refine your skills.
A notable highlight, based on real feedback, is the hands-on nature of the class. You’ll be kneading and shaping your pasta, not just watching a demonstration. Plus, the skills you learn extend beyond the class—think dinner-party-worthy homemade pasta whenever you like, plus some fun food photography opportunities to show off your creations.
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What the Experience Looks Like
The Meeting Point and Atmosphere
Starting at the Button Brew House in Marana, the location is convenient and casual—a lively spot where you can settle in with a drink before or after your class. The class begins at 5:00 pm, making it an ideal early evening activity that fits well into a Tucson day.
The Structure of the Class
Chef Matthew kicks things off with the base egg dough, demonstrating how to combine ingredients for a smooth, workable consistency. From there, you’ll move on to creating the green dough with fresh spinach purée and the red dough with puréed tomatoes—each step designed to be straightforward but satisfying.
Once your doughs are ready, the real fun begins: kneading, rolling, and cutting. You’ll learn how to shape your pasta into different forms, perhaps even trying your hand at some traditional shapes. The instructor emphasizes technique and consistency, which are key to achieving that perfect al dente bite when cooking.
Practical Details and Group Size
With a maximum of 25 participants, the class maintains an intimate, interactive vibe. All necessary equipment and ingredients are supplied, so you can focus entirely on the process. While the class does not include drinks, there’s a bar nearby, and prices range from $3 to $20. It’s a relaxed environment where conversation and laughter are encouraged.
The Cooking and Tasting
After shaping and cutting, you’ll cook your pasta in boiling water until it reaches that ideal al dente texture—just firm enough to provide a satisfying bite. The final step? Enjoy your homemade pasta, perhaps with a simple sauce or as part of a future meal. The class wraps up with the satisfaction of knowing you created something both beautiful and delicious.
Experience Insights and Authentic Tips

Based on reviews, one thing that stands out is the deliciousness of the homemade pasta. Travelers appreciated how satisfying it was to eat the results of their own labor. Multiple reviewers mentioned that the class was “beginner-friendly” and that Chef Matthew was great at guiding participants through each step with patience and humor.
Another insider tip: many travelers found it helpful to bring their phones or cameras to capture the vibrant colors of their pasta—photos that will surely impress at any dinner table or social media feed.
Guests also noted that the class was more than just a cooking lesson; it was a lively, social experience that added a fun element of teamwork and shared achievement. The fact that all ingredients are provided means no hidden costs or fuss, making it excellent value for this interactive culinary adventure.
Why We Think This Tour is Worth Considering

This pasta class offers a blend of learning, tasting, and fun—perfect for those who want to add a splash of color to their cooking repertoire. The focus on fresh, from-scratch pasta means you’ll leave with skills that can elevate your dinner parties or weeknight meals.
The relaxed setting at the Button Brew House and the small group size foster a friendly atmosphere where everyone can participate and ask questions. The class’s duration of about two hours strikes a nice balance: enough time to master the basics without feeling rushed.
At $75 per person, the price reflects the personalized instruction, all ingredients, and the enjoyable experience of shaping and cooking your own pasta. For food lovers, it’s a memorable way to connect with Tucson’s local culinary scene while gaining a new skill.
Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys hands-on activities and is eager to learn a new skill, this class is ideal. It suits couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun activity that ends in a delicious reward. The class is welcoming for beginners, yet offers enough guidance to make you confident in replicating the process at home.
Those who love美 vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will particularly enjoy the visual appeal of the tri-color pasta. Plus, if you’re a fan of pasta dishes, this class gives you a practical skill to impress at your next dinner gathering.
FAQs

Do I need any cooking experience to join?
No, this class is designed to be beginner-friendly, with clear guidance from Chef Matthew.
What is included in the price?
All necessary ingredients and equipment are provided by the chef, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and appetite.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the class can be tailored to various dietary needs if notified in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Where does the class take place?
It starts at the Button Brew House in Marana, AZ, a casual venue known for its friendly vibe.
Can I bring drinks?
Drinks are available for purchase at the venue’s bar, with prices ranging from $3 to $20.
How long is the class?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an engaging yet manageable activity for most schedules.
What happens after I make the pasta?
You’ll cook your pasta to perfection and enjoy the fruits of your labor, possibly with a simple sauce or just with a drizzle of olive oil.
Is this tour suitable for groups?
Yes, with a maximum of 25 travelers, it’s perfect for small groups or even a fun date night.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Final Thoughts

This fun and flavorful pasta-making class in Tucson offers a genuine chance to learn a new skill while enjoying an interactive, social atmosphere. The focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients, combined with expert guidance from Chef Matthew, makes it both educational and delicious. Whether you’re a novice looking to boost your culinary confidence or someone eager to add a splash of color to your cooking repertoire, this class delivers.
The relaxed setting, friendly group size, and all-included approach make it a practical choice for travelers seeking a memorable, hands-on activity. The experience’s value lies in the joy of creating something beautiful and tasty with your own hands—plus the recipes and skills to keep the culinary fun going long after the class ends.
Overall, if you want a lively, satisfying way to spend a couple of hours in Tucson that combines learning, laughter, and good food, this pasta class is well worth considering.
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