Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Few dishes evoke the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine quite like Spaghetti Carbonara. With its creamy sauce, savory pancetta, and perfectly cooked pasta, this classic Roman dish has earned its place as a favorite among pasta lovers worldwide. Follow this authentic Spaghetti Carbonara recipe to bring the taste of Italy to your table and delight your taste buds with each flavorful bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (100g) grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces (225g) pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Italian parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. 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 cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Cheese: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
3. Cook the Pancetta: In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta and garlic. Toss the spaghetti with the pancetta and garlic until well coated.
5. Add the Egg Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti, tossing continuously to coat the pasta evenly. The residual heat from the spaghetti will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out.
6. Serve Immediately: Once the spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce and heated through, divide it among serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional grated Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped Italian parsley, if desired.
7. Enjoy Your Homemade Spaghetti Carbonara: Serve the Spaghetti Carbonara immediately, while it’s still hot and creamy. Pair it with a crisp salad, crusty bread, and a glass of your favorite Italian wine for a truly satisfying meal.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients, including authentic Pecorino Romano cheese and Parmesan cheese, for the best flavor.
• Be sure to whisk the egg and cheese mixture thoroughly to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Work quickly when adding the egg mixture to the spaghetti to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
• For a vegetarian version, you can omit the pancetta or replace it with mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added flavor.

With its rich and creamy sauce, savory pancetta, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this authentic Spaghetti Carbonara recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta, this classic Italian dish delivers on taste and satisfaction every time. Buon appetito!