Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsMama Carolla'sSpaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Inspired by Mama Carolla's
Time30m
Serves4

Spaghetti tossed with pancetta, egg, and parmesan cheese.

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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 4-5 liters of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt.

  2. 2

    Cook the Spaghetti

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

  3. 3

    Reserve Pasta Water

    Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Preparing the Sauce

  1. 4

    Cook the Pancetta

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta. Cook until crispy and brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping the drippings in the pan.

  2. 5

    Beat the Eggs and Cheese

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

Combining Ingredients

  1. 6

    Combine Pasta and Pancetta

    With the skillet still warm, add the drained spaghetti to the pancetta and drippings, tossing to combine.

  2. 7

    Add Egg Mixture

    Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

  3. 8

    Season

    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.

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