Classic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Name: Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 4 oz pancetta or guanciale, diced; 3 large eggs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper; Salt (to taste)

Posted on April 9, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Classic Spaghetti Carbonara wafting through your kitchen, evoking memories of bustling Italian trattorias. Picture creamy, rich pasta twirling around your fork, with crispy pancetta adding a delightful crunch that makes your taste buds dance. similar creamy pasta recipes perfect side for pasta dishes The savory scent fills the air, and suddenly you’re transported to a sunlit piazza in Rome, where every bite is a celebration of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

This dish is not just food; it’s an experience! Whether you’re whipping it up for a romantic date night or a cozy family dinner, Classic Spaghetti Carbonara always delivers warmth and joy. As you savor each mouthful, you’ll feel the love that goes into this timeless recipe, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Classic Spaghetti Carbonara offers an effortless yet impressive meal option perfect for busy weeknights
The bold flavors meld beautifully to create a comforting dish everyone will adore
Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper for entertaining guests on special occasions
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, you can adjust ingredients based on what you have at home!

I remember the first time I made Classic Spaghetti Carbonara. My friends were convinced I had secretly enrolled in culinary school after receiving rave reviews!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: The star of the show; choose high-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor.
Pancetta or Guanciale: Use diced pancetta for a smoky flavor or authentic guanciale for traditional richness.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are crucial; they create that luscious sauce we all love.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your cheese fresh for maximum flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a spicy kick, don’t hold back!
Salt: A pinch is necessary for seasoning the pasta water; adjust to taste later.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Crisp the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced pancetta or guanciale. Sauté until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, releasing all those meaty juices.

Whisk the Eggs and Cheese: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. This mixture should resemble thick cream which will coat your pasta beautifully.

Combine Ingredients Quickly: Drain spaghetti while reserving some pasta water. Add hot pasta directly into the skillet with crispy meat while still over low heat to keep everything warm.

Create the Sauce: Remove from heat and immediately pour egg and cheese mixture over hot pasta while tossing quickly. Add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired creaminess.

Season and Serve!: Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and additional cheese if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm, the longer it sits, the less creamy it becomes!

Making Classic Spaghetti Carbonara at home is truly an adventure full of laughter and deliciousness! Now gather your ingredients and get ready to impress yourself (and anyone lucky enough to join). delicious seafood option.

You Must Know

Classic Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless dish that offers creamy comfort with every bite
The right balance of flavors ensures it’s memorable, while the simplicity makes it perfect for any occasion
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without breaking a sweat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cooking spaghetti and preparing the sauce simultaneously is key. Start by boiling pasta, then sauté pancetta while whisking eggs and cheese for a creamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap pancetta for guanciale or bacon. You can also add peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture, making each plate unique.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water for creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; aged cheese gives a deeper taste
Ensure your pasta is al dente to hold up against the sauce, avoiding mushiness
Remember to save some pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency at the end

Sharing my first attempt at Classic Spaghetti Carbonara was a comedy show—pasta flying everywhere as I tried to mix it all together! For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.

FAQ

Can I use regular bacon instead of pancetta?

Yes, but traditional recipes recommend pancetta or guanciale for an authentic taste.

How do I prevent scrambled eggs in my sauce?

Ensure the pasta is hot enough to cook the eggs gently without scrambling them.

What can I serve with Classic Spaghetti Carbonara?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy dish for a complete meal. refreshing Mediterranean salad.