Creamy Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that is known for its rich and creamy texture. Made with simple ingredients, this dish combines the flavors of crispy pancetta or guanciale, creamy egg yolks, and savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect choice for a comforting dinner that is quick and easy to prepare.
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Why Make This Recipe
You should make Creamy Carbonara because it is a delicious and satisfying meal. It takes only a short time to prepare and uses basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for a special occasion!
How to Make Creamy Carbonara
Ingredients
- 6 oz (170 g) pancetta or guanciale, diced (or thick-cut bacon)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 large egg
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large pan, cook pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta and remove from heat.
- Quickly stir in the egg mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Carbonara
Serve Creamy Carbonara hot from the pan, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if you like. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish goes well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Carbonara
If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in a pan over low heat. You may need to add a bit of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Carbonara
- Use the best quality pancetta or guanciale you can find for the best flavor.
- Make sure to mix the egg mixture with the pasta off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- If you like a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the pancetta or guanciale with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables like zucchini. You could also try using different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular bacon instead of pancetta or guanciale?
Yes, you can use thick-cut bacon as a substitute. It will add a different flavor but still be delicious.
2. Can I make Creamy Carbonara ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator. Reheat them before serving.
3. Is Creamy Carbonara a healthy dish?
While it is rich and creamy, it contains a good balance of protein from the eggs and cheese. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Creamy Carbonara
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- 6 oz pancetta or guanciale, diced Or use thick-cut bacon as a substitute.
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add more for garnishing if desired.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- optional Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large pan, cook pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and Parmesan cheese.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta and remove from heat.
- Quickly stir in the egg mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
