Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, savory allure of Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic Italian dish combines tender pasta with a luscious sauce made from eggs, cheese, and pancetta, creating a symphony of flavor that feels both indulgent and comforting.

I first discovered Spaghetti Carbonara during a trip to Rome, where I was enchanted by the simplicity and elegance of this iconic recipe. It quickly became a household favorite, thanks to its quick preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal. Let me show you how to bring this Italian classic to your table.

Why You'll Love This Spaghetti Carbonara

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. Spaghetti Carbonara is as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.

First, it's an incredibly quick and simple recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have hours to spare.

Second, it’s packed with flavor. The rich creaminess of the egg-based sauce, the salty sharpness of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, and the smoky, savory bites of pancetta all come together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

It's also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, this recipe consistently earns rave reviews. It’s as satisfying as it is elegant.

Finally, it’s versatile. While the traditional recipe is hard to beat, you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or make use of ingredients you already have on hand. Keep reading for some great variation ideas!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Spaghetti Carbonara lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here's what you need and why each one is important.

Spaghetti is the star of the dish. Traditionalists insist on spaghetti for its perfect texture and bite, but you can substitute with bucatini or fettuccine if needed. Aim for high-quality, bronze-cut pasta for the best sauce adhesion.

Pancetta brings a smoky, salty depth of flavor. If you can’t find pancetta, guanciale is the most authentic option, though bacon can work in a pinch. Chop it into small cubes for even cooking.

Eggs are the foundation of the creamy sauce. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best texture and flavor. You’ll need both the yolks and a couple of whole eggs to strike the right balance between richness and silkiness.

Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty kick. Pecorino Romano is the traditional choice, but a mix of the two cheeses works beautifully as well. Freshly grate your cheese for the best results.

Black pepper is an essential seasoning. Use freshly cracked pepper for its bold flavor, and don’t be shy – the peppery bite is a signature element of Carbonara.

You’ll also need a large pot, a sturdy skillet, and a mixing bowl to bring everything together seamlessly.

How To Make This Spaghetti Carbonara

Creating this iconic dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for perfect Spaghetti Carbonara every time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is where your spaghetti will cook, so be generous with the salt – the pasta water helps flavor the dish.

While the water heats, prepare your pancetta. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the cubed pancetta. Let it render its fat and turn crispy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, remove the pancetta and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks and 1 whole egg with about 1 cup of grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. Season it with a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper.

Cook your spaghetti until it’s just shy of al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Working quickly, toss the hot pasta into the skillet with the rendered pancetta fat. Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring vigorously to coat the pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, clinging sauce.

Finally, stir in the crispy pancetta and adjust the seasoning with additional cheese and black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated cheese and a sprinkling of parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Spaghetti Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat your pasta.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce. Stir constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs, and serve as soon as it’s heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

Spaghetti Carbonara is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

For a vegetarian version, substitute the pancetta with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a smoky, umami-rich flavor.

Prefer a lighter option? Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt in place of some of the eggs for a less indulgent sauce.

If you’re gluten-free, swap the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Chickpea or lentil-based options hold up especially well to the creamy sauce.

Add a touch of luxury by stirring in a splash of white wine or cream during the cooking process. It’s not traditional, but it’s delicious!

Feeling adventurous? Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant twist.

Experimenting with these variations ensures you’ll never tire of this timeless dish. Whether you stick to tradition or put your own spin on it, Spaghetti Carbonara is a recipe worth mastering – and sharing!

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