Classic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Craving a pasta dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor? Look no further than Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic Italian recipe combines simple ingredients to create a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.

The magic of this dish lies in its ability to transform basic spaghetti into a delightful culinary experience. With just the right amount of pancetta, eggs, and cheese, this Spaghetti Carbonara will have your taste buds dancing.

The Allure of Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara stands out as a beloved pasta dish that satisfies cravings for something creamy and flavorful. This iconic Italian creation takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a comforting experience that many adore.

The richness of Spaghetti Carbonara typically comes from a blend of eggs, cheese, and crispy pancetta, which together create a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of al dente spaghetti. Each bite offers a delightful balance of savory and slightly smoky notes, making it a dish that promises satisfaction with each forkful.

Ingredients that Shine

The beauty of Spaghetti Carbonara lies in its straightforward list of ingredients. With just spaghetti, pancetta, eggs, and a couple of cheeses, this dish is a testament to the principle that less can indeed be more.

Pancetta, a cured meat, adds that essential crispy texture and depth of flavor, while the combination of Pecorino Romano and Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty backdrop. The simplicity of these elements combines to create a dish that feels both rustic and refined.

The Cooking Process

Preparing Spaghetti Carbonara is a relatively quick endeavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The process begins by cooking the spaghetti until just right, ensuring that it will absorb the sauce beautifully.

After frying the pancetta to achieve a golden crispiness, the magic happens when the hot pasta meets the egg and cheese mixture. This crucial step creates a creamy coating that envelops the spaghetti, while the heat from the pasta cooks the eggs gently, resulting in a silky sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Spaghetti Carbonara is beautifully plated, it’s time to enhance it with garnishes. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated cheese and cracked black pepper adds visual appeal and elevates the flavor.

Pairing this dish with a glass of white wine complements the richness of the pasta and enhances the dining experience. For a rustic touch, serve it alongside a small bowl of cheese, inviting guests to indulge further in this delightful meal.

Nutrition Highlights

Spaghetti Carbonara not only pleases the palate but also delivers satisfying nutrition in each serving. With approximately 570 calories per serving, it provides a hearty meal that’s rich in protein and fat.

While it’s a treat best enjoyed in moderation, the balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins makes it a fulfilling choice that can be part of a well-rounded meal plan.

Why Spaghetti Carbonara is a Favorite

The charm of Spaghetti Carbonara lies not only in its flavors but also in its ability to bring people together. This dish is often associated with shared meals, laughter, and enjoyment, making it a staple in many homes.

Whether you introduce it at a family gathering or enjoy it during a cozy dinner for two, the experience of savoring every bite of this classic dish is sure to create lasting memories.

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 100g grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. Prepare the Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta. Cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. If needed, add olive oil to help it crisp up.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
4. Combine: Add the hot spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta and remove from heat. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing to coat the spaghetti evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.
5. Serve: Divide the Spaghetti Carbonara among plates, and garnish with additional cheese, black pepper, and parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 570kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 62g