Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
Classic Roman pasta dish with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper.
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Ingredients
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Pasta and Sauce
Method
Preparation Steps
- 1
Cook the Spaghetti
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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- 2
Prepare the Pancetta
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- 3
Mix the Egg Yolks and Cheese
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese until combined. This mixture will create a creamy sauce when combined with the hot pasta.
- 4
Combine Ingredients
When the spaghetti is done cooking, add it directly to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to combine, allowing the spaghetti to absorb some of the pancetta fat. Remove from heat.
- 5
Create the Sauce
Quickly pour the egg yolk and cheese mixture over the hot spaghetti, tossing continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- 6
Season and Serve
Season with freshly cracked black pepper and salt to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.