Classic Italian Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
100g guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek)
50g Pecorino Romano cheese
50g Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
4 large egg yolks
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it until it's al dente.
While the spaghetti is cooking, slice the guanciale into small pieces and place them in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until the guanciale is crispy and the fat has rendered out.
Grate the Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses and combine them in a bowl. Separate the egg yolks and add them to the bowl with the cheese. Mix them together until it forms a creamy sauce.
When the spaghetti is done, reserve a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the guanciale and toss everything together, coating the spaghetti in the fat.
Remove the skillet from the heat and add the egg and cheese mixture to the pasta. Quickly mix it all together, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti.
Season the carbonara with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Divide the spaghetti carbonara among serving plates and serve immediately.

Tools for making

Large pot - for boiling the spaghetti
Skillet - for cooking the guanciale and tossing the pasta
Grater - for grating the Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses
Bowl - for mixing the grated cheese and egg yolks
Tongs or pasta fork - for stirring and serving the spaghetti
Salt shaker - for seasoning the carbonara
Pepper mill - for freshly cracked black pepper
Serving plates - for serving the finished spaghetti carbonara

Recipe variations

Use bacon or pancetta instead of guanciale.
Substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta such as fettuccine or linguine.
Add sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra flavor and texture.
Include cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyère or Fontina.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a subtle tangy flavor.
Include minced garlic or onion for added depth of flavor.
Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a touch of freshness.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding roasted vegetables.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a deliciously rich and savory Italian classic with this Spaghetti Carbonara recipe. This dish highlights the simple yet flavorful combination of creamy egg yolks, freshly grated Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses, and crispy guanciale. Although it only requires a handful of ingredients, it delivers an indulgent experience that is perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. Spaghetti Carbonara is all about timing and technique. The key to this dish is mixing the hot pasta with the egg and cheese mixture off of the heat to create a creamy, silky sauce without scrambling the eggs. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce. With this recipe, you'll learn how to make a perfect spaghetti carbonara that's sure to impress. Serve it immediately for the best experience and enjoy the comfort of Italian home cooking.

Common questions

Can I use bacon instead of guanciale? Yes, you can substitute guanciale with bacon if you are unable to find it.
Can I use spaghetti substitutes like linguine or fettuccine? Yes, you can use linguine or fettuccine as alternatives to spaghetti for this recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese? While Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano are traditional cheeses for carbonara, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Grana Padano or Asiago.
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks? Traditionally, only egg yolks are used in carbonara to achieve a rich and creamy texture. However, you can use a combination of whole eggs and additional yolks if desired.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the guanciale and replace it with vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version of spaghetti carbonara.
Can I add vegetables or other ingredients to the carbonara? While traditional carbonara doesn't include vegetables, you can add cooked peas, sautéed spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes to the dish for extra flavor and color.
How do I reheat leftovers? Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Can I make carbonara in advance? It is recommended to make carbonara fresh, as the sauce can separate and become clumpy if made in advance. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and quickly cook and assemble the dish when ready to serve.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - for boiling the spaghetti
Skillet - for cooking the guanciale and tossing the pasta
Grater - for grating the cheese
Bowl - for mixing the egg yolks and cheese
Tongs - for tossing and serving the spaghetti
Measuring cup - for reserving pasta water

Origin stories

Ah, carbonara, a culinary delight steeped in history and intrigue. Forged in the aftermath of World War II, the dish is said to be a delightful fusion of cultures - a meeting point between traditional Italian culinary practices and the influence of the American soldiers stationed in Italy. The story goes that as they craved a taste of home, the soldiers introduced bacon and eggs into the Italian cuisine. The creative Italian cooks took these ingredients and added their own flair, mixing in local cheeses and pasta to create what we now know as spaghetti carbonara. Like most Italian cuisine, the beauty of the carbonara lies in its simplicity, the magic of a few quality ingredients combining to create a dish that's more than the sum of its parts. It's a testament to the power of culinary creativity to adapt and transform, even in the most challenging times.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.