Make Lasagna & Tortellini at a Historic Villa (3-Course Meal)

If you’re craving a hands-on taste of Northern Italy, this Make Lasagna & Tortellini experience hosted through Cozymeal might just be your perfect match. Set in a beautifully preserved villa that once served as a hunting lodge, this three-hour class offers more than just cooking; it’s a chance to connect with Italian culinary traditions in a charming, historical setting.

From expertly guided pasta shaping to sharing stories about regional dishes, this class promises a genuine slice of Italy’s rich food culture. Along the way, you’ll learn to craft hand-shaped tortellini filled with ricotta, master a layered lasagna Bolognese, and finish with a delicate custard glazed with caramel.

What we love is the intimate, relaxed atmosphere led by skilled chefs, the immersive storytelling that makes each dish come alive, and the stunning villa surroundings that elevate the entire experience. The main drawback? The price point of nearly $300 per person might seem steep, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. But if authentic culinary skills and memorable scenery are your priorities, this experience offers great value.

This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to learn traditional recipes, travelers who appreciate a scenic setting, and anyone wanting a genuine, hands-on Italian cooking adventure.

Good To Know

• Authentic Italian dishes like tortellini and lasagna are made from scratch.
• Historic villa setting adds a special atmosphere to the cooking experience.
• Guided by a skilled chef, blending instruction with storytelling.
• BYOB policy allows you to bring your favorite wine or beer to enjoy.
• Small group size (up to 9) ensures personalized attention.
• Flexible dietary accommodations available upon prior request.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: A Historic Villa in Emilia-Romagna

One of the most appealing parts of this tour is the venue itself. The class takes place in a stunning villa that was once a hunting lodge, with exquisite architecture and picturesque surroundings. This historic setting offers a sense of stepping back in time while providing a spacious, comfortable environment for cooking and socializing. The ambiance is enhanced by the villa’s details, which you might find charmingly rustic yet refined, perfect for photo ops and relaxed conversations after cooking.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The three-hour session is carefully structured to balance instruction, hands-on participation, and storytelling. It starts at 11:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. The class is designed for small groups (up to 9 participants), which means you’ll get more personalized guidance from your chef, likely named or at least led by a friendly, engaging instructor.

First Course: Hand-shaped butter and sage tortellini. You’ll learn how to roll and shape pasta by hand, filling each piece with a creamy ricotta mixture. The chef emphasizes the importance of technique here, which is good news if you’re keen to take home practical skills. As you work, you’ll hear about regional pasta traditions and the significance of basil and garlic in northern Italian cuisine.

Second Course: Classic lasagna Bolognese. The layered dish involves slow-simmered ragù, tender spinach pasta sheets, and a silky béchamel—each component demonstrating traditional techniques. Reviewers mention how the chef guides you through the process seamlessly, making even complex steps manageable. The cheese topping is baked to a golden crust, completing the dish.

Dessert: Latte in piedi. This silky Italian custard, topped with caramel glaze, offers a sweet finish. Many reviewers highlight how satisfying it is to make a traditional Italian dessert from scratch and how it pairs perfectly with the savory courses.

The Cooking Process & Instruction Quality

Guided by a top-rated chef, the class combines step-by-step instructions with storytelling about local culinary traditions. Reviewers note that the chef was welcoming, laid-back, and patient, making the experience accessible—even for those with limited cooking experience.

We loved the way each step was explained clearly, with tips that can be applied back home. For example, the process of shaping tortellini, which can be tricky, was broken down into manageable parts. The chef also shared little secrets, like how to achieve the perfect béchamel consistency or the best way to brown butter for the sauce.

The Authenticity and Cultural Value

Beyond just cooking, the class offers insight into regional Italian flavors and traditions. You’ll hear stories about Emilia-Romagna’s culinary history, which adds depth to the tasting experience. This storytelling element enriches the understanding of why these dishes are so cherished, making the meal more meaningful.

The Price and Value Proposition

At nearly $294 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to dine, but it does include a full 3-course menu with all ingredients provided. The value lies in the quality of instruction, the authenticity of recipes, and the stunning setting. If you’re someone who appreciates hands-on learning and wants to walk away with new skills, this experience offers a lot for the price. Reviewers mention leaving “full and happy,” having learned recipes they plan to recreate at home.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins promptly at 11:00 am from Via Giuseppe Tanari, in Castel San Pietro Terme. The class typically lasts around three hours, wrapping up at the same meeting point. The small group size ensures individual attention, and the option to bring your own wine or beer makes the experience more relaxed and personalized.

The experience is designed with flexibility in mind, including dietary accommodations—just inform the organizers beforehand. The full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This class suits foodies eager to learn authentic Italian recipes, those interested in regional traditions, and travelers who love beautiful settings. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a memorable, educational experience that combines cooking with culture.

If you’re looking for a culinary activity that’s both fun and informative, with the bonus of stunning scenery, this class hits the mark. Keep in mind, if you’re on a tight budget, the price may be a consideration, but the quality and authenticity offered are worth it.

The Sum Up

This Lasagna & Tortellini cooking class in a historic Emilia-Romagna villa offers more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a way to connect with Italy’s culinary soul. The setting elevates the experience, making it feel special without being overly formal. You’ll leave not only with new skills but also a deeper appreciation for the region’s food traditions.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious traveler, the opportunity to shape pasta by hand, learn secret techniques, and savor a multi-course meal in such a picturesque environment makes this a worthwhile adventure. It’s best suited for those valuing authenticity, skilled guidance, and scenic ambiance over pure budget-friendly options.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into Italian comfort food, this class delivers a genuine taste of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary pride.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the chef’s guidance makes even complex pasta shaping manageable, and the step-by-step instructions are designed to be accessible for all skill levels.

Can I bring my own wine or beer?
Absolutely. This is a BYOB experience, so bringing your preferred beverages is encouraged for a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere.

How long does the class last?
The class runs for approximately three hours, starting at 11:00 am, including hands-on cooking and storytelling.

What is the setting like?
You’ll be located in a charming villa that was once a hunting lodge, offering a beautiful, historic backdrop for your culinary journey.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the experience is designed to accommodate various dietary needs. Just notify the organizers in advance.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll learn to make butter and sage tortellini, lasagna Bolognese, and a custard dessert called latte in piedi.

This detailed look into the Make Lasagna & Tortellini at a Historic Villa experience shows it’s a wonderful choice for those who want more than just a meal — they want a memorable, skill-building adventure in one of Italy’s most scenic settings.