Classic Italian Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
Transport your taste buds to Italy with this authentic Spaghetti Carbonara! This classic pasta dish is a staple in Italian cuisine and is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Follow this simple recipe to create a comforting Italian meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients: for Spaghetti Carbonara.
- 400grams spaghetti pasta
- 150grams pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions: for Spaghetti Carbonara.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
- Prepare the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolk, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Pancetta
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the whole cloves of garlic and sauté for about 1 minute to flavor the oil.
- Remove the garlic and add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Cook until crisp and golden brown.
- Combine Pasta and Pancetta
- Once the pancetta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the pancetta fat.
- Finish the Carbonara
- Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture. Add a little reserved pasta water, if necessary, to create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta without scrambling the eggs.
- The residual heat will cook the eggs through and melt the cheese without overcooking.
- Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan, fresh parsley (if using), and an extra twist of black pepper.
Enjoy your homemade, creamy, and irresistible Spaghetti Carbonara straight from the heart of Italian cuisine.
Note: Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
