Classic Italian Carbonara
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Classic Italian Carbonara, a dish that is both simple and sophisticated. Made with al dente pasta, crisp bacon, and a rich egg-cheese sauce, this traditional recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Perfect for family dinners or an intimate gathering with friends, this carbonara brings warmth and comfort to any table. Pair it with a fresh salad and glass of crisp white wine to complete the experience. Quick to prepare yet deeply satisfying, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
angel hair pasta
1 lb (Cooked until al dente)
parmesan cheese
2 cups (Freshly grated)
large eggs
5 (Beaten)
lean bacon or pancetta
0.5 lb (Cut into 2-inch pieces)
salt
1 dash (To taste)
black pepper
1 pinch (Freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2
While the pasta cooks, cut the bacon or pancetta into 2-inch pieces and sauté them in a large frying pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pan.
3
In a mixing bowl, grate the parmesan cheese. In a separate large bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until smooth.
4
Combine the grated parmesan with the beaten eggs, mixing until you achieve a thick, smooth paste. Season with a dash of salt and a pinch of pepper.
5
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Quickly add the hot pasta to the egg and cheese mixture, tossing it with tongs to ensure the pasta is well coated. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
6
Add the crispy bacon and a teaspoon of bacon drippings to the pasta, continuing to toss and combining everything thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
7
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated parmesan, freshly ground pepper, and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Watch as your family and friends enjoy scraping their plates clean!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Italian Carbonara?
It is a traditional Italian pasta dish known for its rich and creamy sauce made from eggs and cheese, complemented by crispy bacon or pancetta.
What kind of pasta is used in this specific recipe?
This recipe calls for 1 lb of angel hair pasta, cooked until al dente.
Can I substitute angel hair with another pasta?
Yes, although this recipe uses angel hair, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni as traditional alternatives.
How much bacon or pancetta is required?
The recipe requires 0.5 lb of lean bacon or pancetta.
What type of cheese is used for the sauce?
This recipe uses 2 cups of freshly grated parmesan cheese.
How many eggs are needed for the carbonara sauce?
You will need 5 large eggs to create the rich sauce for this dish.
Does this recipe include heavy cream?
No, this is a traditional recipe that creates a creamy texture using only eggs, cheese, and pasta water.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling when making the sauce?
The heat from the hot, drained pasta is used to gently cook the eggs off-heat, ensuring a smooth and creamy sauce rather than scrambled eggs.
Should I keep the pan on the stove when adding the egg mixture?
No, you should combine the hot pasta and the egg-cheese paste in a large bowl or a pan removed from the heat source.
Why should I reserve a cup of pasta water?
The starchy pasta water is used to thin out the sauce and help it reach your desired consistency if it becomes too thick.
How should the bacon be prepared?
The bacon or pancetta should be cut into 2-inch pieces and sautéed until crispy.
Is it necessary to use the bacon drippings?
The recipe suggests adding a teaspoon of bacon drippings back into the pasta for extra flavor and richness.
How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
Check the pasta package instructions; al dente means the pasta is cooked through but still firm to the bite.
Can I use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan?
Yes, Pecorino Romano is a traditional alternative or addition that provides a sharper, saltier flavor profile.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This is considered a quick meal, taking approximately the same amount of time as it takes to boil water and cook the pasta.
What are the primary seasonings for this carbonara?
The dish is seasoned simply with a dash of salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
Is this dish considered high in protein?
Yes, the combination of 5 eggs, bacon, and cheese makes this a protein-rich pasta dish.
What is the best way to serve Carbonara?
Serve it immediately while hot, garnished with extra parmesan and freshly ground pepper.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
A fresh green salad and a glass of crisp white wine are excellent pairings for this rich meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Carbonara is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, as the egg sauce can lose its creamy texture when cooled or reheated.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat Carbonara?
Reheat it very gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce, being careful not to overcook the eggs.
Is it better to use freshly grated cheese?
Yes, freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly into the eggs than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Can I add vegetables like peas to this?
While not traditional, many people enjoy adding peas or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
Why do I need to beat the eggs until smooth?
Beating the eggs thoroughly ensures they mix evenly with the cheese to create a uniform paste for the sauce.
Should I salt the pasta water?
Yes, cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted water is essential for seasoning the noodles from the inside out.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner substitute, though the final dish will have less fat and a slightly different flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for family dinners?
Absolutely, it is a comforting and satisfying dish that is generally a favorite for both children and adults.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, continue to toss the pasta; the residual heat will gradually thicken the egg and cheese mixture.
How many people does 1 lb of pasta serve?
Typically, 1 lb of pasta serves approximately 4 to 6 people depending on appetite size.