Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a classic Roman dish that perfectly balances simplicity and indulgence. This beloved pasta features a silky, rich sauce made from eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and crispy pancetta or guanciale. The secret to Carbonara’s creamy texture lies in the heat of the freshly cooked pasta, which gently cooks the eggs without scrambling them, creating a luscious coating on each strand of spaghetti. Finished with a generous grind of black pepper, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a comforting and satisfying meal that highlights the beauty of using simple, high-quality ingredients. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a timeless favorite that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz guanciale or pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, for pasta water
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Cook the Guanciale:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced guanciale or pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, quickly transfer it to the skillet with the guanciale. Toss to coat the pasta in the rendered fat. Gradually pour the egg mixture over the hot pasta, tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Serve the Spaghetti Alla Carbonara immediately, topped with additional Pecorino Romano and more black pepper if desired.
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a dish that embodies the elegance of Italian cuisine. With its creamy sauce, crispy guanciale, and sharp Pecorino Romano, each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a true comfort food classic.
