Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a simple yet tasty pasta dish made with spaghetti, eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. It’s creamy, comforting, and quick to whip up!
Honestly, what’s not to love? I could eat this almost every night! Just remember to mix the pasta with the egg and cheese right away for that dreamy sauce to form!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The classic choice for Carbonara, but you can swap it for other pasta shapes like fettuccine or bucatini if you’re feeling adventurous. Whole wheat pasta is an option if you prefer added fiber.
Pancetta or Guanciale: Use guanciale for the most authentic flavor, but pancetta works well too. In a pinch, you can substitute with thick-cut bacon, though it will alter the taste a bit.
Cheeses: Pecorino Romano is traditional and provides a sharp flavor. If it’s not available, Parmigiano-Reggiano can be a good replacement. You could even use a mix of both for a balanced taste!
Eggs: The base of your sauce, large eggs are best. For a richer sauce, you can use extra yolks. If you’re avoiding eggs, though, you’ll need to look for a different recipe as they are essential!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Scrambling the Eggs?
The secret to a silky Carbonara sauce is all about the timing and heat control. Here’s how to get that creaminess without scrambling the eggs:
- Make sure the pasta is hot when you mix it with the egg mixture; the heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently.
- Remove the pan from the heat when adding the egg and cheese mixture to prevent direct heat from scrambling them.
- Stir quickly and continuously, adding a little reserved pasta water as needed. This helps achieve the desired creamy texture.
Using these tips, you’ll be celebrating a delicious plate of Spaghetti Alla Carbonara in no time! Enjoy!
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 150g (5 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 1/2 cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, for pasta water
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time for a total of roughly 30 minutes. This quick recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Pancetta:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Mix the Egg and Cheese:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, finely grated Pecorino Romano, Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will create the creamy sauce for your pasta, so set it aside for now.
4. Drain the Spaghetti:
As soon as your spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the spaghetti using a colander.
5. Combine Everything:
Quickly add the hot spaghetti to the skillet with the crispy pancetta (make sure the skillet is off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs). Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti and quickly toss everything together. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently and form a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Season and Serve:
Give your Carbonara a taste and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper if desired. Serve immediately on plates, garnished with extra grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like.
Enjoy your authentic, creamy, and peppery Spaghetti Alla Carbonara with confidence!
Can I Use Bacon Instead of Pancetta or Guanciale?
Yes, you can use bacon if you can’t find pancetta or guanciale, but keep in mind that it will impart a slightly different flavor. Opt for thick-cut bacon for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to add a splash of water or broth to help revive the creamy texture as you warm it up on the stove.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the pancetta and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables for added flavor. You might also want to use a bit of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky taste!
Can I Freeze Spaghetti Alla Carbonara?
While it’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to the egg-based sauce, you can freeze the uncooked pasta and pancetta separately. Just cook it fresh for the best texture when you’re ready to eat!