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Creamy Pasta Carbonara Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

creamy pasta carbonara - featured image

A quick and easy creamy pasta carbonara recipe that delivers bold flavors and comforting textures, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 4 ounces pancetta, diced
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add a small splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture.
  5. Return the pancetta to the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss to combine.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and slowly pour the egg yolk mixture over the pasta, tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water.
  7. Season the pasta with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.

Notes

Work quickly when combining the egg yolks with the hot pasta to prevent scrambling. Reserve enough pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: carbonara, creamy pasta, quick dinner, Italian recipe, comfort food