How to Make Spaghetti Carbonara: A Classic Italian Delight


Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish that combines the creamy richness of eggs and cheese with the savory flavors of pancetta and pepper. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this classic dish at home.

Ingredients                                                                      

  • 200g (7 oz) spaghetti

  • 100g (3.5 oz) pancetta or bacon, diced

  • 2 large eggs

  • 50g (1.75 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley (optional), chopped for garnish


    Buy now product amazon

  • Tools Needed

    Instructions

    1. Cook the Spaghetti:

    • Tool: Large pot

    • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through.

    • Tool: Colander

    • Before draining the pasta, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create the creamy sauce. Then, drain the spaghetti.

    2. Prepare the Pancetta/Bacon:

    • Tools: Large skillet, wooden spoon or tongs

    • While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.

    • Add the diced pancetta or bacon to the skillet and cook it until it’s crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

    • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

    3. Mix the Egg and Cheese:

    • Tools: Small bowl, whisk

    • In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until they are well combined. This mixture will form the creamy base of your sauce.

    4. Combine Everything:

    • Tools: Large skillet, wooden spoon or tongs

    • Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the pancetta and garlic. Toss the pasta to coat it in the rendered fat.

    • Remove the skillet from the heat. This is crucial to prevent the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot pasta.

    5. Add the Egg Mixture:

    • Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing continuously to ensure the eggs thicken into a creamy sauce rather than scrambling. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs.

    • If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired creamy consistency.

    6. Season:

    • Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be generous with the black pepper, as it adds a wonderful flavor to the dish.

    7. Serve:

    • Tools: Knife and cutting board

    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

    • Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and creamy.

    Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Carbonara

    • Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality pancetta and Parmesan cheese. Authentic ingredients make a significant difference.

    • Temperature Control: Remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. The goal is a silky, creamy sauce.

    Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking water. Its starchiness helps create the perfect sauce consistency.



    Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless Italian classic that’s both comforting and luxurious. With these steps, you can recreate this dish at home and enjoy its rich flavors and creamy texture. Buon appetito

  • Post a Comment

    0 Comments