Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBig Mama's CafeSpaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Inspired by Big Mama's Cafe
Time30m
Serves4

Classic Italian pasta dish with creamy sauce and pancetta.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Sauce

Garnish

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Water

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

  2. 2

    Cook the Spaghetti

    Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Reserve Pasta Water

    Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Making the Sauce

  1. 4

    Cook the Pancetta

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pancetta. Cook until it becomes crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

  2. 5

    Prepare the Egg Mixture

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until well combined.

Combining and Serving

  1. 6

    Combine Spaghetti and Pancetta

    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta. Toss to combine and let cool slightly (to avoid scrambling the eggs).

  2. 7

    Add Egg Mixture

    Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Toss quickly to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches desired creaminess.

  3. 8

    Season and Serve

    Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

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