why make this recipe
Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian dish that brings the comfort of home cooking to your table. It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta creates a rich flavor that many people adore. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
how to make Spaghetti Carbonara
Ingredients:
- 8 oz Bacon
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 1 Fresh Parsley
- 1 large Egg
- 3 large Egg yolks
- 12 oz Spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup Pasta water
Directions:
- Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolks, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt.
- When the pasta is done, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the hot pasta to the skillet with the bacon and garlic.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture until creamy, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
how to serve Spaghetti Carbonara
Serve Spaghetti Carbonara hot, directly from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a bit of chopped parsley on top for an attractive presentation.
how to store Spaghetti Carbonara
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help reclaim the creamy texture.
tips to make Spaghetti Carbonara
- Use high-quality bacon for better flavor.
- Make sure to work quickly when mixing in the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Reserve enough pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like Pecorino Romano, for a twist on flavor.
variation
You can add vegetables like peas or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Some people also like to use pancetta instead of bacon for a more authentic Italian taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Spaghetti Carbonara without cream?
A: Yes! Traditional recipes often skip the cream. You can rely on the eggs and cheese to create a creamy sauce.
Q: What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
