Pasta Carbonara is a beloved Italian classic that combines simplicity with rich, creamy flavors. This dish features perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in a luscious sauce made from egg yolks and Parmesan, with crispy bacon adding depth and texture. Quick to prepare yet indulgent, it’s ideal for both cozy weeknight meals and special occasions. Let’s dive into creating an authentic Carbonara that will make your taste buds sing!
Ingredients
- 150 grams spaghetti
- 4 egg yolks (medium)
- 1 whole egg (medium)
- 75 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- 150 grams bacon (guanciale or pancetta, diced)
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper and salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and grated Parmesan until smooth.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden. If using garlic, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking, stirring to prevent burning.
- Combine and Toss: Immediately transfer the hot, drained spaghetti to the skillet with the bacon. Slowly pour the egg and Parmesan mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Use a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and ensure it coats the spaghetti evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary. Serve immediately.
Conclusion
Pasta Carbonara is a celebration of simple yet robust flavors. With its creamy texture and savory bacon, it’s a dish that’s universally loved and incredibly satisfying. This recipe keeps things authentic and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a true taste of Italy in your own home. Buon appetito!
Classic Italian Pasta Carbonara: A Timeless Recipe
A quick and creamy Italian classic, Pasta Carbonarafeatures spaghetti tossed with a rich egg-and-Parmesan sauce and crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 150 grams spaghetti
- 4 egg yolks medium
- 1 whole egg medium
- 75 grams Parmesan cheese grated
- 150 grams bacon guanciale or pancetta, diced
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and grated Parmesan until smooth.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden. If using garlic, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking, stirring to prevent burning.
- Combine and Toss: Immediately transfer the hot, drained spaghetti to the skillet with the bacon. Slowly pour the egg and Parmesan mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Use a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and ensure it coats the spaghetti evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary. Serve immediately.