Spaghetti Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta – A Classic Italian Delight 🍝
If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing Rome to your dinner table, this is your sign. This *Spaghetti Carbonara* is the real deal—no cream, just a rich, velvety sauce made from eggs, Parmesan, and crispy pancetta. It’s indulgent yet quick, and every bite is pure Italian comfort. 🇮🇹✨
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💚
- ✅ Authentic Flavor: Just like in Rome, no shortcuts.
- ✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- ✅ Rich & Creamy: Made without cream—just egg, cheese, and technique.
🍝 Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz pancetta (or guanciale), diced
- 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
- 2 garlic cloves (optional), crushed
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Fry the pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy. Optional: Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then discard garlic.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, yolk, cheese, and a generous amount of black pepper.
- Combine: Add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta (off the heat). Slowly pour in the egg mixture while stirring quickly to create a silky sauce. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Plate immediately, topped with more cheese and black pepper.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- ✨ Use Pecorino Romano for a saltier, more traditional kick.
- ✨ Don’t scramble the eggs: Stir vigorously and work off the heat.
- ✨ No pancetta? Substitute with thick-cut bacon in a pinch.
🥗 Nutritional Benefits
While indulgent, Carbonara offers protein from the eggs and pancetta, calcium from the cheese, and energy-boosting carbs from the pasta. Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
🥡 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- 🧊 Make-ahead: Prep the cheese and pancetta in advance, but cook fresh for best texture.
- 🥡 Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- 🔥 Reheat: Gently warm on the stove with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
❓ FAQ
- Can I use cream in Carbonara?
Authentic Carbonara does not use cream. The creaminess comes from eggs and cheese. - Is it safe to eat eggs this way?
Yes, the residual heat from the pasta cooks the eggs to a safe temperature. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit pancetta and add sautéed mushrooms for umami depth.
Mangia Bene! 🇮🇹
Did you try this Spaghetti Carbonara? Leave a comment or tag your dish on Pinterest! Let’s keep cooking and sharing cozy meals together. 💚
