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–+ servings

Carbonara Pasta Recipe

Author: Zaina Hill
A classic Italian dish that combines spaghetti with a rich, creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and crispy pancetta, perfect for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon Salt
  • 1 pound Beef Pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 4 large Egg yolks
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1.5 cups Pecorino romano cheese, grated
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
  • Cook 1 pound of spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, reserving 1½ cups of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta or bacon for about 7 to 10 minutes until crispy. Drain excess fat, leaving around 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, eggs, and 1 cup of grated pecorino romano cheese until well combined and creamy.
  • Add the hot drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to coat the pasta in the rendered fat.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture along with ½ cup of reserved pasta water, tossing continuously until a creamy sauce forms around the pasta.
  • Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more reserved pasta water gradually until desired creaminess is reached.
  • Serve the pasta immediately, topped with the remaining pecorino romano cheese and a generous sprinkling of black pepper.

Notes

  • Use fresh eggs for a better color and creamier texture.
  • Grate your own cheese for best melting quality.
  • Timing is crucial to prevent eggs from scrambling.
  • Always reserve enough pasta water for consistency adjustments.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper is essential for flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g
Keyword Pasta Carbonara
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