Creamy Carbonara
There’s just something about a big, cozy plate of Creamy Carbonara that feels like a culinary hug. It’s the kind of dish that’s deceptively simple yet utterly elegant, perfect for inviting over your best pals or just snuggling up on the couch all by your lonesome. Think silky, cheesy pasta with that whisper of bacon-y goodness that makes you close your eyes and smile with every bite. If you’ve never tried making it at home, you’re in for a real treat. This isn’t just pasta; it’s a whole vibe.
My husband, a self-professed pasta snob, can build you a mountain of reasons why this Creamy Carbonara recipe reigns supreme in our house. It’s become a weeknight ritual for us—something about twirling perfect strands of spaghetti and stealing forkfuls from each other’s plates just spells love to me. I remember the first time I made it, a delightful accident, with the recipe scrawled on a loose napkin. It was an instant hit, and now I can’t imagine our lives without it.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Carbonara
– It’s a one-pot wonder that feels like a date night right at your kitchen table.
– The ingredients are probably already lurking in your pantry. Sneaky, right?
– Perfect balance of creamy, salty, and cheesy—all the good things in life.
This Creamy Carbonara recipe was such a hit at our dinner table! It came together quickly with ingredients I already had on hand, and the sauce was rich without being too heavy. Definitely going into our weeknight dinner rotation!
How to Make It
Okay, here’s the lowdown, buddy. Start boiling that spaghetti like you mean it, but not too long, you know? While that magic happens, get your bacon sizzling away. And gap-toothed grater in hand, rain down the Parmesan. Now, combine this whole orchestra with eggs for the silky creaminess we’re craving. But hey, steer clear of the pan while doing this—scrambled eggs are a no-go here!
Ingredient Notes
– Spaghetti: Always al dente, people! There’s a reason Italian grandmothers speak of it like a decree.
– Bacon: Oh boy, it gives that smoky savoriness we can’t live without.
– Parmesan Cheese: Don’t even think about the pre-grated stuff. Trust me, the extra elbow grease is worth it.
Recipe Steps
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente.
2. Fry bacon until crisp in a medium pan. Reserve a splash of the fat.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Drain spaghetti, saving a bit of pasta water. Love those starchy juices.
5. Toss spaghetti with bacon (and a splash of that sacred bacon fat).
6. Off heat, mix egg mixture into pasta swiftly, adding pasta water to emulsify if needed.
What to Serve It With
Aside from some extra cheese (duh!), a side salad keeps things fresh. Maybe a crusty loaf if you’re feeling carby.
Tips & Mistakes
Do not—I repeat—do not let the eggs cook on direct heat. You’ll end up with a breakfast pasta and that’s just awkward.
Storage Tips
Leftover carbonara is a sight to behold and scoff down cold a few hours later or whispered into some scrambled eggs for breakfast. Store any extras in an airtight container, but honestly, who leaves leftovers?
Variations and Substitutions
Swap pancetta in for a salty adventure or go veggie with mushrooms—portobello heaven! Ever swapped spaghetti for zoodles? I did once. Not the same vibe, but hey, dietary whims, right?
Frequently Asked Questions
Remember it later
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Creamy Carbonara
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz pancetta diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crisp, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta; remove from heat. Slowly pour egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Serve immediately with additional Parmesan and black pepper if desired.
Notes
Featured Comments
“Made this last night and it was so flavorful. Loved how the comforting came together.”
“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Made this last night and it was absolutely loved. Loved how the handheld came together.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and so flavorful results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Made this last night and it was so flavorful. Loved how the nourishing came together.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Made this last night and it was absolutely loved. Loved how the fluffy came together.”
“This bite-sized recipe was turned out amazing — the juicy patty really stands out. Thanks!”
“Made this last night and it was absolutely loved. Loved how the gooey came together.”
