Spaghetti Carbonara is more than just a meal; it’s a classic Italian dish that transports you straight to the heart of Rome with every bite. There’s something effortlessly charming about this dish that makes it a go-to for both cozy weeknights and fancy gatherings. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta intertwined with crispy lardons, all finished with a sprinkle of black pepper. This recipe has been cherished for generations, making it a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Italian flavors.
Why you’ll love this dish
Spaghetti Carbonara is a delightful combination of simplicity and satisfaction. One of the best things about this dish is its quick cooking time; in just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, with a handful of ingredients, it’s incredibly budget-friendly.
18 —This dish is fantastic for kids and adults alike, who wouldn’t love crispy bacon and creamy cheese? Perfect for special occasions or just a comforting dinner at home, it easily adapts to different occasions. It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for family meals or when you want to impress guests without the fuss.
"This is the best Carbonara I’ve ever made! The creaminess paired with that smoky flavor is absolutely divine."
Preparing Spaghetti Carbonara
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s discuss how this recipe comes together. You’ll start by cooking the spaghetti until al dente, which means it maintains a slight firmness. While that’s cooking, you’ll crisp up the lardons or pancetta in a pan. After mixing the salty, crispy bits with rich eggs and cheese, everything combines harmoniously when tossed with the hot pasta, creating a creamy sauce without the need for cream.
Simply put, this dish is all about timing and technique.
What you’ll need
To make a delicious Spaghetti Carbonara, gather this list of ingredients:
- 300 grams of spaghetti
- 150 grams of smoked bacon or pancetta
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- Parmesan cheese (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Salt (for pasta water)
For substitutions, if you can’t find pancetta, good-quality bacon will work just fine, and you can adjust the cheese type to fit your taste.
