Pasta Carbonara is a creamy, comforting dish that combines pasta with crispy pancetta. The sauce is made from eggs and cheese, which makes it rich and delicious!
Every time I make this dish, I can’t help but savor each bite. It’s quick to whip up, and let’s be honest, who can resist that creamy goodness? 😋
I love how it feels fancy but takes just a few simple steps! Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This is the classic pasta for Carbonara. If you don’t have spaghetti, feel free to use fettuccine or bucatini as great alternatives. Just be mindful of the cooking time!
Pancetta: Pancetta brings a lovely saltiness and crispness. If you can’t find it, bacon is a suitable substitute, though it will add a smokier flavor to the dish.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are vital for the creamy sauce. If you want less cholesterol, you can use egg whites or a combination of whole eggs and egg whites. But I find whole eggs give the best richness!
Pecorino Romano: This cheese has a sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the dish. If it’s hard to find, Parmesan is a good substitute. However, it’s milder, so add a little extra if required!
How Do I Create That Creamy Sauce Without Scrambling the Eggs?
The key to avoiding scrambled eggs while making Carbonara is to remove the skillet from the heat before adding the egg mixture. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook your pancetta until crispy, then take the pan off the heat.
- When you add the hot pasta, the residual heat will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce without scrambling.
- Make sure to toss the pasta quickly with the egg mixture. This helps evenly coat the pasta and avoids clumps!
- If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
This method will give you that smooth, luscious sauce that Carbonara is famous for!
Pasta Carbonara With Pancetta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 150g (5 oz) pancetta, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated (or Parmesan)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, for pasta water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pasta Carbonara takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and around 15 minutes cooking, enjoying the delightful aroma as you whip it all together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This will usually take about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir it occasionally!
2. Prepare the Pancetta:
As the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta along with the peeled garlic cloves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta becomes crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove the garlic cloves from the skillet and discard them.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and a good amount of freshly ground black pepper until you have a smooth mixture. Set this delicious combiaser aside for later.
4. Combine Pasta and Pancetta:
Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water in case you need it for your sauce. Then, drain the pasta and quickly add it to the skillet with the crispy pancetta (make sure the skillet is off the heat to prevent scrambling the eggs!).
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta. Toss everything together rapidly to make sure all the pasta is coated evenly in that luxurious sauce. It will start to thicken with the heat of the pasta! If the sauce is too thick, add in some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pasta a taste! Add more freshly ground black pepper if you like that nice, peppery bite. Feel free to mix in more cheese if desired!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Pasta Carbonara immediately while it’s still warm, garnished with extra grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
And there you have it! Your delicious Pasta Carbonara with crispy pancetta is ready to impress.
Can I Use Bacon Instead of Pancetta?
Absolutely! Bacon is a great substitute for pancetta. Just keep in mind that it will add a smokier flavor to the dish, which can be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Carbonara?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to loosen up the sauce, and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added flavor. You can also use smoked paprika to mimic that savory taste.
What If My Sauce Turns Out Too Thick?
If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing the pasta until you reach the desired creamy consistency. This step is a game-changer!
