Table of Contents
Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its rich and creamy flavor. Originating from Rome, it combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and delicious meal. This recipe features pancetta and Parmesan cheese, which add depth and savory notes to the dish.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 150g pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil (optional)
Preparation Steps
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with pancetta. Remove from heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually if needed to loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. For added flavor, consider a drizzle of good quality olive oil or fresh parsley.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente to maintain texture.
- Work quickly when combining the hot pasta with the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.