Pasta Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that brings together the bold flavors of pancetta, eggs, and cheese to create a creamy sauce that coats perfectly al dente pasta. This comforting meal is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to master this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 100g pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 50g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Black pepper, freshly cracked
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 600 calories, 30g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. This is a rich dish, so enjoy it as an occasional treat!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Cook until crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, and a generous amount of black pepper.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta and mix well to combine.
- Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese and parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your homemade Pasta Carbonara with a side salad or crusty bread!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute pancetta with bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms to add a savory flavor, and consider using nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free dish.
Serving and Pairings
Pasta Carbonara pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. For a more hearty meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light soup.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Carbonara can be tricky to freeze due to the eggs, but if needed, it can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t add the egg mixture while the pasta is still on the heat, or it will scramble.
- Be cautious with salt, as the cheese and pancetta are already salty.
- Always reserve pasta water—it helps achieve that creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up in the sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially cheese.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Allow the pasta to sit for a minute before adding the egg mixture.
- Experiment with adding garlic for an extra flavor boost.
- Pair with fresh herbs for a bright finish.
FAQs
Can I use cream in Carbonara?
Traditional Carbonara does not use cream; the creaminess comes from the eggs and cheese. Adding cream is a deviation from the classic recipe but can be done for a different texture.
What type of pasta is best for Carbonara?
Spaghetti is the most common choice, but you can also use fettuccine, bucatini, or linguine. The key is to choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.
Can I make Carbonara without cheese?
While cheese is a crucial component of the dish, you could use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor will differ significantly.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?
To prevent scrambling, make sure to remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture and stir vigorously to combine.
Is Pasta Carbonara suitable for meal prep?
While it can be stored, Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh as the sauce may thicken when reheated. If meal prepping, consider making the sauce separately from the pasta.
Conclusion
Pasta Carbonara is a timeless dish that showcases the beauty of Italian cooking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Enjoy this delightful recipe with family and friends for a taste of Italy at home!
Pasta Carbonara
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 100 g pancetta or guanciale diced
- 2 large eggs
- 50 g Pecorino Romano cheese grated
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- Black pepper freshly cracked
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Cook until crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, and a generous amount of black pepper.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta and mix well to combine.
- Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese and parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your homemade Pasta Carbonara!
