Discover the ultimate spaghetti carbonara recipe – a creamy, savory Italian pasta dish made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon for an irresistibly rich flavor. This classic recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners and takes just minutes to make! Without heavy cream, the sauce gets its creamy texture from the egg and cheese mixture, making it both delicious and traditional. Try this easy, authentic spaghetti carbonara for a simple yet indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for pasta lovers seeking an Italian-inspired dinner!
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried spaghetti
- 4 oz bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Place the bacon in a single layer in a large, cold skillet. Set the heat to low to slowly render the bacon fat. As the bacon begins to release grease, increase the heat to medium.
- Flip the bacon pieces as needed to cook evenly until crispy to your liking. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water until smooth. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Reheat the skillet with the bacon fat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly until it’s fragrant and lightly browned, about 45-60 seconds.
- Add the cooked pasta and bacon to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
- Add the Egg Mixture:
- Pour the egg mixture into the pasta and quickly toss to coat while the heat is still on, about 30-40 seconds. The residual heat should thicken the sauce without scrambling the eggs. Remove from heat immediately.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Season with additional cheese and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this classic Italian dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This authentic spaghetti carbonara is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor without any heavy cream. The combination of crispy bacon, salty Parmesan, and the perfect egg-based sauce makes it irresistibly delicious. It’s a quick and easy meal that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen!
Tips
- Use High-Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Toss the pasta with the egg mixture quickly over low heat to avoid scrambling.
- Save Extra Pasta Water: This can be used to adjust the sauce’s thickness as needed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, or asparagus for a nutritious twist.
- Pancetta or Guanciale: Substitute bacon with pancetta or guanciale for a more traditional flavor.
- Cheese Choice: Pecorino Romano offers a sharper flavor if you prefer a bolder taste.
FAQs
Can I make this dish without bacon?
Yes! Try using mushrooms for a vegetarian version, or opt for pancetta or guanciale for a more authentic taste.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Just add a small amount of reserved pasta water until it’s creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
Can I make carbonara ahead of time?
Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can affect the creamy texture of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaghetti carbonara with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Add extra grated Parmesan on top and garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, for an Italian-inspired dining experience!
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