Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re exploring the rich and indulgent flavors of Spaghetti Carbonara, a classic Italian pasta dish beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide. With its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Spaghetti Carbonara is for anyone who appreciates the sublime combination of pasta, eggs, cheese, and bacon. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking to expand your culinary repertoire or a novice in the kitchen eager to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Why It’s Great
What makes Spaghetti Carbonara truly great is its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, derived from eggs and cheese, coats each strand of pasta, while the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive dinner party.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Recipe Directions
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the bacon fat and garlic.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Once the spaghetti is evenly coated in the creamy sauce, stir in the crispy bacon.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Be sure to temper the egg and cheese mixture with a bit of the hot pasta water before adding it to the spaghetti to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the egg and cheese mixture.
- Feel free to customize your Spaghetti Carbonara by adding ingredients such as peas, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking spaghetti
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or tongs
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s rare with a dish as delicious as Spaghetti Carbonara), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Food and Drink Pairings
Spaghetti Carbonara pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. For drinks, consider serving a light and fruity white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
There you have it, a mouthwatering recipe for Spaghetti Carbonara that’s sure to transport your taste buds to Italy with every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this classic pasta dish is a surefire winner. So gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to savor the flavors of la dolce vita. Buon appetito!