A machine for the production of liquid, semi-liquid or pasty solid food products is described. The machine includes a working container provided with an internal stirrer and externally with heat exchange means, an inlet opening in fluid communication with means for feeding a base food mixture into the container, a first outlet opening for a finished food product and a second outlet opening or a washing liquid. The machine further includes an automatic device for washing the feeding means and the container, and the automatic device has a circuit and a pump for recirculating the washing liquid and means for heating the recirculated washing liquid. A method for cleaning a machine of the aforementioned type is also described.