Experience the authentic taste of Rome with this Spaghetti alla Carbonara Recipe. A dish known for its simplicity and rich flavor, Carbonara combines perfectly cooked spaghetti, crispy pancetta, and a creamy egg-based sauce. With just a few ingredients and precise technique, this recipe brings the essence of Italian culinary tradition to your table.
Ingredients
For the Carbonara Sauce:
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 1 cup pancetta (or guanciale), diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
- Salt, for boiling water
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce (5 minutes)
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolk, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan (if using), and black pepper until smooth.
- Set the sauce aside at room temperature.
Cook the Pasta (10 minutes)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Pancetta (8 minutes)
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy and golden, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
Combine and Create the Sauce (5 minutes)
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to combine.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. The residual heat will cook the eggs without scrambling them.
- Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Serve and Garnish (2 minutes)
- Transfer the Carbonara to plates or a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately.
Cooking Times Summary
- Sauce Preparation: 5 minutes
- Pasta Cooking: 10 minutes
- Pancetta Cooking: 8 minutes
- Combining and Finishing: 7 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Taste: Captures the essence of traditional Roman cuisine.
- Quick and Simple: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of creamy sauce and crispy pancetta.
What’s the secret to creamy Carbonara?
The key is to mix the egg sauce with hot pasta and pancetta off the heat. The residual warmth creates a creamy texture without scrambling the eggs.
Can I substitute pancetta or guanciale?
If pancetta or guanciale isn’t available, you can use smoked bacon as a substitute, though it slightly alters the flavor.
What’s the best cheese for Carbonara?
Pecorino Romano is the traditional choice, but Parmesan can be used for a milder taste.
Can I make Carbonara vegetarian?
Yes! Replace pancetta with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
What’s the best pasta for Carbonara?
Spaghetti is the classic choice, but bucatini or fettuccine can also work well.
This Spaghetti alla Carbonara Recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, embodying the heart of Italian cooking. With its creamy texture, crispy pancetta, and rich cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up for dinner and enjoy a taste of Rome from the comfort of your home!
