Name: Creamy Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked; 6 ounces pancetta, chopped; 2 cups half and half; 2 large egg yolks; 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 4 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

This Creamy Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Tender spaghetti is coated in a luscious sauce made with pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks, creating a decadent and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The combination of pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks creates a velvety smooth and incredibly flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
Authentic Italian Flavors: This recipe captures the essence of a traditional carbonara, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a simple yet elegant preparation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Carbonara:

Spaghetti: Uncooked, for a classic carbonara experience.
Pancetta: Chopped, adds a salty and savory flavor to the sauce. You can substitute with bacon or guanciale if desired.
Half and half: Creates a creamy base for the sauce. You can also use heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Egg yolks: Enrich the sauce and add a velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor.
Fresh basil: Chopped, for garnish and a touch of freshness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Creamy Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Pancetta

While the pasta is cooking, add the chopped pancetta to a large skillet and sauté over medium-low heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the half and half to the skillet with the rendered pancetta fat and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks together, then slowly drizzle a few tablespoons of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly, to temper them. Pour the tempered egg yolks into the skillet and whisk continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the black pepper and taste for salt, adding more if needed (though the cheese usually provides enough saltiness).

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti, crispy pancetta, and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss well to combine and coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and pasta, the better the flavor of the carbonara.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta to al dente so it doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
Temper the egg yolks: Tempering the egg yolks prevents them from curdling when added to the hot sauce.
Serve immediately: Carbonara is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, as the sauce will thicken as it sits

How to Serve Creamy Carbonara

Classic Italian: Serve this Creamy Carbonara as a main course for a simple yet elegant Italian dinner.
Side Dish: You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Special Occasion: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
While spaghetti is traditional for carbonara, you can use other long pasta shapes, such as fettuccine or linguine.

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?
Yes, you can use bacon, but pancetta has a richer flavor that’s more traditional in carbonara.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the pancetta or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the black pepper.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Creamy Carbonara that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!