Pasta Carbonara Recipe

Pasta Carbonara Directions

1. 1

   Cook the Pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

2. 2

   Prepare the Pancetta

   While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping the fat in the pan.

3. 3

   Mix the Egg and Cheese

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

4. 4

   Combine Pasta and Pancetta

   Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta. Quickly add the hot pasta to the skillet with the pancetta (off the heat) and toss to combine, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the pancetta fat.

5. 5

   Create the Sauce

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

6. 6

   Serve

   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more black pepper if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if using.