Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Pasta
Sauce
Garnish (optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil.
- 2
Cook Spaghetti
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Reserve Pasta Water
Before draining the spaghetti, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside.
- 4
Drain Pasta
Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- 5
Cook Pancetta
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 6
Mix Eggs and Cheese
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- 7
- 8
Add Egg Mixture
Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti, tossing rapidly to coat the pasta and create a creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- 9
Season
Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and more black pepper if desired.
Serving
- 10
Plate the Carbonara
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if using, and additional Parmesan cheese on the side.