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Spaghetti alla Carbonara

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Classic Italian pasta made with crispy guanciale, Pecorino Romano, and a rich creamy sauce. A simple and authentic comfort food recipe perfect for dinner.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

1 tablespoon salt
1 pound spaghetti
2 large eggs
3 large egg yolks
1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
8 ounces guanciale, cut into small cubes
½ cup reserved pasta water
Freshly ground black pepper, to tast

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg yolks. Stir in the freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and set aside.
Cut the guanciale into small cubes or lardons. Add to a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook for 7–10 minutes until crispy and the fat has rendered. Do not drain the fat.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 7 minutes. Reserve ½–1 cup of pasta water before transferring the pasta.
Using tongs, transfer the spaghetti directly into the skillet with the guanciale. Toss well so the pasta absorbs the rendered fat.
Remove the skillet from direct heat and quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture. Toss continuously until the sauce becomes creamy. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed.
Season generously with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt if desired. Serve immediately with extra Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano on top.

Notes

For authentic carbonara, use guanciale instead of bacon. Be careful not to overheat the eggs to avoid scrambling the sauce.