Description
Whip up this creamy spaghetti carbonara tonight! Made with simple ingredients like pasta, eggs, Parmesan, and crispy bacon, it’s comfort food at its best. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers. No fancy techniques—just rich, cheesy goodness with every bite. Save this post for when you’re craving something delicious and easy to make!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti – 400g
- Pancetta or guanciale – 150g
- Eggs – 4 large
- Parmesan cheese – 100g, grated
- Black pepper – freshly ground
- Salt – to taste
Instructions
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. The salt will enhance the flavors of your pasta. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add your spaghetti. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Cook the pasta until it is al dente—this typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it to have a slight bite! Once it’s done, reserve a cup of pasta water to use later for that perfect creamy texture, then drain the spaghetti.
While your spaghetti is cooking, it’s time to whip up the luxurious sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine eggs and a generous amount of grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Whisk them together until you form a smooth, creamy mixture. The cheese will add a rich depth of flavor to your Creamy Spaghetti Carbonara. Don’t forget to season with freshly cracked black pepper; this will elevate the taste of your dish.
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add diced pancetta or guanciale. Sauté until it becomes crispy and golden, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water! You want to achieve that perfect crispy texture that’s essential for a good Creamy Spaghetti Carbonara.
With the spaghetti and pancetta ready, it’s time for the magic moment! Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the crispy pancetta. Toss them together, allowing the sizzling heat of the pasta to slightly cool the pan. Now, take your cheese and egg mixture and pour it over the pasta. Quickly mix everything together; this is where the reserved pasta water comes into play. Use a splash to loosen the sauce until it resembles a glossy, creamy coating on every strand.
Once you’ve tossed everything to perfection, plate your Creamy Spaghetti Carbonara immediately. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more freshly cracked pepper and a shaving of Pecorino Romano cheese on top. Serve it hot, and watch as your loved ones dive into this beautiful dish.
Notes
Tip 1: Cheese Selection
Using Pecorino Romano is traditional, but you can also mix with Parmesan if preferred. Always use freshly grated cheese for an unforgettable taste!
Tip 2: The Egg Mixture
Be quick when mixing the egg mixture with hot pasta to prevent scrambling. The warmth of the spaghetti is key to achieving that luxurious creaminess.
Tip 3: Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge but expect the texture to change; reheating can dry it out. If needed, add a splash of water or cream to bring back some moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Keywords: spaghetti carbonara