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  1. Recipes
  2. Dinner Recipes
  3. The Best Easy Pasta Carbonara

The Best Easy Pasta Carbonara

This comfort food classic is ideal for date nights or family dinners!

By Charlyne MattoxPublished: Jan 27, 2024
Star FillStar FillStar FillStar FillStar
4
1 Rating
Arrow Circle Down IconJump to recipe
pasta carbonara on a table with wine and roses
Becky Luigart-Stayner
Yields:
4 serving(s)
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
15 mins

Legend has it this deeply yummy combo of pasta, bacon, cheese, and eggs was originally made to sustain Italian coal miners for a day of hard labor. (The word "carbonara" translates to "charcoal burner.") 

Even if that's just a myth, it's undeniable that this dish is incredibly rich and filling. We love it as a simple but romantic dinner-for-two with a glass of red wine. It also makes a great family meal! However you make it, we think you'll find that this recipe is simple and delicious.

One note: As with any dish, the better the ingredients, the better it will tastes. While we recommend guanciale, an Italian cured meat, it can be hard to chase down. Use the best, fattiest, thick-cut bacon you can find as a pretty good substitute.

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Ingredients

  • 4 oz. guanciale or 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 large egg, plus 5 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 oz. Parmesan, grated (about 1/3 cup)
  • 1 1/2 oz. Pecorino, grated (about 1/3 cup)
  • Kosher salt and freshly grated black pepper
  • 12 oz. spaghetti

Directions

    1. Step 1Cook guanciale or bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until brown and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Reserve 2 tablespoons fat; drain bacon on a paper towel-lined plate. Whisk together eggs in a bowl. Add Parmesan, Pecorino, bacon fat, and bacon and stir to combine. Season generously with pepper. 
    2. Step 2Bring a large of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup water; drain. Very slowly stir in 1/4 cup water to egg mixture. Add pasta and stir to combine. Thin with additional pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
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