Description
Craving a comforting, restaurant-quality pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes? Classic Spaghetti Carbonara is your answer. This easy recipe brings the best of Italian cuisine to your kitchen, making it one of the ultimate quick dinner ideas for any night of the week. With creamy eggs, salty cheese, and crispy pancetta clinging to perfectly cooked spaghetti, it’s pure indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re exploring new food ideas or in need of a reliable go-to easy recipe, this traditional favorite delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Ideal for quick meals, last-minute guests, or even a luxurious weeknight treat, it’s one of those dinner ideas that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
400g (14 oz) spaghetti
150g (5 oz) guanciale or pancetta, diced
3 large egg yolks
1 whole large egg
1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Freshly ground black pepper (generous amount)
Salt, for pasta water
Optional: Fresh parsley and extra cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add guanciale or pancetta and sauté until golden and crisp. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, whole egg, and Pecorino Romano. Add freshly ground black pepper.
- Add hot pasta to the skillet with guanciale (off heat). Toss to coat in the rendered fat.
- Gradually pour in the egg-cheese mixture, tossing continuously. Add reserved pasta water little by little until sauce is creamy.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra cheese, black pepper, and parsley if using.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner