Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish known for its rich and creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. Despite its simplicity, this dish is packed with flavor and has become a favorite around the world. The key to a perfect carbonara is using high-quality ingredients and mastering the technique to create a silky, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Spaghetti Carbonara just like they do in Italy, so you can enjoy a taste of authentic Italian cuisine at home.
Ingredients for Spaghetti Carbonara
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan), plus more for serving
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces (115g) pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
How to Make Spaghetti Carbonara
Preparation:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Prepare the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
Making the Carbonara Sauce:
- Cook the Pancetta:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the pancetta and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant (if using).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta and garlic. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the pancetta drippings.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly (this is important to prevent the eggs from scrambling when added).
- Add the Egg Mixture:
- Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously with tongs or a pasta fork to coat the pasta evenly. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve Immediately:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese and black pepper.
About the Main Ingredients
Spaghetti:
Spaghetti is the traditional pasta used in Carbonara, known for its long, thin shape. It pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and is able to hold the sauce well.
Eggs:
Eggs are a key component of the Carbonara sauce, providing richness and creaminess. The eggs are not fully cooked in the traditional method, which gives the sauce its signature texture.
Pecorino Romano Cheese:
Pecorino Romano cheese is a hard, salty Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk. It adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the Carbonara sauce. Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute if Pecorino Romano is not available.
Pancetta or Guanciale:
Pancetta and guanciale are both types of Italian cured pork. Pancetta is more readily available and can be used as a substitute for guanciale, which is made from pork jowl. Both add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Black Pepper:
Freshly ground black pepper is essential in Carbonara, adding a spicy kick that balances the richness of the sauce. Be generous with the black pepper, as it is a key flavor component.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil is used to cook the pancetta and garlic, adding flavor and helping to create the base of the sauce.
Garlic (Optional):
Garlic is not traditionally used in Carbonara, but some recipes include it for extra flavor. If using garlic, be sure to cook it gently to avoid burning.
Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is simple yet incredibly flavorful. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport you to Italy with every bite. Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or impress your guests with a taste of authentic Italian cuisine at your next dinner party.
