Classic Pasta Carbonara

Name: Classic Pasta Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti; 2 large eggs; 2 egg yolks; 100 g Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked); 150 g pancetta (diced); 1 tbsp olive oil

25 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in this creamy, authentic pasta carbonara made with simple ingredients for a delightful Italian meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pasta Carbonara is a beloved Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavour. This classic recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a delightful meal that feels both indulgent and comforting. This version of Pasta Carbonara focuses on authenticity, using traditional ingredients like eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper to achieve the perfect balance of flavours. It's a dish that’s perfect for any pasta lover looking to experience true Italian cuisine at home.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Pro tip: Don't rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce stick.

Prepare the sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until well combined.

Pro tip: Ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Cook the pancetta

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Combine pasta and pancetta

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta. Toss well to coat the pasta with the pancetta and oil.

Finish the sauce

Remove the skillet from heat. Quickly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.

Pro tip: Work quickly to avoid clumping.

Serve

Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and black pepper on top.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh eggs for the creamiest sauce.
Save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pasta carbonara I?

Pasta Carbonara I refers to the traditional Italian pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper, resulting in a creamy sauce.

How many calories are in pasta carbonara?

There are approximately 525 calories in one serving of this classic Pasta Carbonara.

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta in carbonara?

Yes, bacon can be used as a substitute for pancetta, though it will impart a smokier flavour to the dish.

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

Ensure the skillet is off the heat when adding the egg mixture, and toss quickly to distribute evenly and prevent scrambling.

Is it traditional to add cream to pasta carbonara?

No, traditional carbonara does not include cream; the creaminess comes from the eggs and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pasta Carbonara immediately with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a crack of black pepper on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. To make ahead, cook the pasta and prepare the pancetta, but wait to combine with the egg mixture until just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Nutrition per serving

525

Calories

20g

Protein

25g

Fat

See the whole store

Kitchen Appliances · Multi-Cookers

Instant Pot® RIO Mini 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker, PressureCooker, SlowCooker, RiceCooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, & Warmer, Includes App With Over 2000 Recipes, 4QT, Rosewater

$145.93

Tableware · Serving Boards

Farberware 11 x 14 Inch Acacia Cutting Board with Locking Lid

$34.99

Pit Boss Grills

Kansas City BBQ Rub

$2.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.