This Pasta Carbonara is a creamy delight made with tasty pancetta and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that combines pasta and bacon? I whip this up when I want something comforting and satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This classic pasta choice is perfect for carbonara. You could substitute it with fettuccine or bucatini if you prefer a different texture.
Pancetta: This gives the dish its rich flavor. If you can’t find pancetta, bacon is a great substitute, though it will change the taste slightly. Turkey bacon is another option for a healthier alternative.
Eggs: Large eggs are used for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using egg whites or a vegan egg replacement like silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheese: Pecorino Romano adds a distinct flavor. If you want a milder taste, Parmesan works just as well. Nutritional yeast can be a good dairy-free substitute.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is crucial for flavor. If you prefer, try smoked paprika for a different kick.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce Without Scrambling the Eggs?
Getting that creamy carbonara sauce just right requires a bit of technique, especially when mixing in the eggs. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the pasta is hot when you mix it with the egg mixture. This helps cook the eggs gently.
- Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the egg mixture. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
- Toss the pasta quickly and continuously as you add the egg and cheese mixture. If it seems too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you reach creamy perfection!
With a bit of attention to these steps, you’ll have a smooth, delightful pasta carbonara every time!
How to Make Pasta Carbonara With Pancetta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 6 ounces pancetta, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and left whole (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pasta Carbonara recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes boiling the pasta and cooking the pancetta, and the rest is for mixing and serving. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before you drain it!
2. Cook the Pancetta:
While the spaghetti is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and the whole garlic cloves (if you’re using them). Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pancetta is crispy and golden brown. Don’t forget to remove and discard the garlic cloves before moving on!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the hot and drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the cooked pancetta (make sure the skillet is off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs!). Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot spaghetti. Quickly toss everything together so the pasta gets evenly coated in that creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.
5. Season to Taste:
Give your pasta a taste! Adjust the seasoning with a bit of salt and additional freshly ground black pepper if you want. This step is essential to make the flavors pop!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Pasta Carbonara immediately! Top with extra grated cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you’d like. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even bucatini if you prefer a different pasta shape. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
What If I Can’t Find Pancetta?
No worries! You can substitute pancetta with bacon for a similar flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon also works well, although it will be a bit less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the pancetta and use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor. For creaminess, incorporate extra eggs or a vegan cream alternative to maintain the dish’s richness.
