Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s creamy, savory, and utterly delicious. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, cheese, pancetta (or bacon), and pasta, this dish comes together quickly and tastes like comfort in a bowl. It’s the perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Classic & Comforting – A timeless Italian favorite that never disappoints.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes with just a few ingredients.
✅ Rich & Creamy – The creamy sauce is made without cream – just eggs and cheese!
✅ Flavorful – The combination of salty pancetta, rich eggs, and sharp Pecorino Romano is irresistible.
Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
Essential Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed for cooking the pancetta)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes), until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pancetta/Bacon
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil (if using) in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced pancetta or bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add a generous amount of black pepper and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pancetta/bacon (don’t turn the heat back on).
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, quickly tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve a silky consistency.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with extra cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this rich and creamy spaghetti carbonara!
Delicious Variations & Add-Ins
🍳 Egg-Free Version – Replace the eggs with 1 cup of heavy cream for a creamy texture.
🥓 Bacon Lovers – Add extra crispy bacon for more crunch and flavor.
🌿 Herb Infusion – Toss in fresh basil or thyme for an herby twist.
🍅 Tomato Carbonara – Add a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
Nutritional Benefits
| Per Serving | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti Carbonara | 550 | 25 | 55 | 25 |
🍝 Pasta – Provides carbohydrates for energy.
🥓 Pancetta/Bacon – High in protein and adds richness to the dish.
🧀 Cheese – Packed with calcium and a rich source of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the Eggs: Be sure to toss the eggs with the pasta off the heat to prevent them from scrambling.
❌ Not Using Enough Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
❌ Skipping the Cheese: The combination of Pecorino Romano and Parmesan is what gives the dish its signature flavor – don’t skimp on it!
❌ Using Cold Pasta: Always toss the hot pasta with the sauce immediately to ensure the sauce becomes creamy.
Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
🍷 Pair With: A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a chilled Chardonnay complements this dish beautifully.
🥗 Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
❄️ Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days, though carbonara is best enjoyed fresh.
🔥 Reheating Tip: Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of milk or pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.
FAQs About Spaghetti Carbonara
❓ Can I use cream in Carbonara?
Traditionally, Carbonara doesn’t use cream – the sauce is made with eggs and cheese. However, if you prefer a creamier version, you can add 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
❓ Can I use regular bacon instead of pancetta?
Yes! Regular bacon works great in place of pancetta. It will add more smokiness to the dish.
❓ What type of pasta is best for Carbonara?
Spaghetti is traditional, but fettuccine, rigatoni, or bucatini are also excellent choices.
❓ Can I make Carbonara ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts: A Comforting Italian Classic!
Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. With its creamy sauce, crispy pancetta, and perfect pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a romantic dinner, this recipe will be a hit every time.
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