Easy Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless Italian dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. The creamy sauce, made from eggs and cheese, clings perfectly to the spaghetti, creating a rich and indulgent experience. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about simplicity and quality ingredients.

The key components of Carbonara include spaghetti, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (or pancetta), and freshly cracked black pepper. The guanciale adds a savory, salty depth, while the cheese provides a creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible. When prepared correctly, the heat from the pasta gently cooks the eggs, resulting in a silky sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.

Making this dish is straightforward. Start by cooking the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. In a separate pan, crisp the guanciale until golden. Whisk together eggs and cheese in a bowl. Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the guanciale, then quickly mix in the egg and cheese mixture off the heat. This step is crucial to avoid scrambling the eggs. Finish with a generous sprinkle of black pepper for that classic Carbonara kick.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests with minimal effort. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this classic dish!

Why It’s So Easy to Make

Spaghetti Carbonara is a minimalist’s dream. The entire dish comes together in the time it takes to boil pasta. There’s no need for elaborate prep or exotic ingredients—just a few quality components and a bit of finesse. The key is tempering the eggs with hot pasta water and tossing everything off the heat to avoid scrambling. Once you’ve mastered that, it’s practically foolproof.

Customization and Protein Boosts

Want to add more protein or make it your own? Swap pancetta for turkey bacon or guanciale for a more authentic Roman flavor. For a heartier version, stir in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even a poached egg on top. Vegetarians can substitute the meat with mushrooms or smoked tofu for a savory umami hit. A handful of peas or spinach adds color and nutrients without compromising the dish’s soul.

Easy Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

  • 3 slices thick-cut bacon or 4 oz pancetta, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk

  • 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

  2. Sauté the bacon in olive oil over medium heat until crisp. Add garlic if using and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.

  3. Whisk eggs and cheese in a bowl until smooth. Season with black pepper.

  4. Temper the eggs by slowly whisking in a tablespoon of hot pasta water to prevent scrambling.

  5. Combine pasta and bacon in the skillet. Off the heat, pour in the egg mixture, tossing quickly to coat. Add pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese and pepper.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~520 kcal

  • Protein: 22–24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 45–55 g

  • Total Fat: 25–30 g

  • Saturated Fat: ~10 g

  • Cholesterol: ~180 mg

  • Sodium: ~700 mg

  • Fiber: ~2–3 g