Pasta Carbonara Recipe

Indulge in the creamy and flavorful goodness of Pasta Carbonara, a classic Italian dish that combines simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that will please the whole family.

Why Make This Recipe

Pasta Carbonara is a popular choice for pasta lovers due to its rich and creamy sauce made with eggs, cheese, and bacon. It’s a comfort food classic that is easy to prepare and always hits the spot.

How to Make Pasta Carbonara

Ingredients:

• 16 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
• 2 whole large eggs at room temperature
• 3 egg yolks room temperature
• 12 ounces thick cut bacon
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian Parsley
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
2. Whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and Parmesan in a bowl.
3. Cook bacon until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Sauté garlic in bacon grease.
5. Cook pasta al dente; reserve pasta water.
6. Add pasta to skillet with garlic and bacon fat.
7. Pour in egg mixture and pasta water while tossing.
8. Add bacon back to the skillet.
9. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Top with parsley and more Parmesan.

How to Serve Pasta Carbonara

Serve Pasta Carbonara hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Pasta Carbonara

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to retain the creamy texture of the sauce.

Tips to Make Pasta Carbonara

• Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to prevent them from scrambling when added to the hot pasta.
• Save some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
• Stir the sauce continuously while incorporating it into the pasta to prevent clumping.

Variation

For a lighter version of Pasta Carbonara, you can use turkey bacon or substitute some of the eggs with additional cheese for a creamier sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta for Carbonara? While linguine and spaghetti are traditional choices, you can also use fettuccine or penne.
2. Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese, or can I use a different cheese? Parmesan cheese works best for its sharp flavor, but you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a slightly different taste.
3. How do I prevent the eggs from curdling in the sauce? Make sure to turn off the heat before adding the egg mixture and toss the pasta quickly to evenly coat it without overheating the eggs.