Easy Homemade Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe ๐
If you’re craving a classic Italian dish that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make, this easy homemade spaghetti carbonara recipe ๐ is exactly what you need. Carbonara is known for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With just a few pantry staples and the right technique, you can enjoy an authentic-tasting meal in under 30 minutes ⏱️.
Unlike heavy cream-based versions, traditional carbonara gets its silky sauce from eggs, cheese, and pasta water. This homemade spaghetti carbonara recipe keeps things simple, beginner-friendly, and full of flavor ๐, even if you’re cooking Italian food for the first time.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
- Difficulty: Easy ๐
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti ๐
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 50g grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese ๐ง
- 100g bacon or pancetta, diced ๐ฅ
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt (for pasta water)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, whisk the eggs and grated cheese together in a bowl. Add plenty of black pepper and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon or pancetta until crispy ๐ฅ. Add garlic if using and cook for 30 seconds.
- Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the hot spaghetti directly to the skillet with the bacon and remove from heat.
- Quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese and black pepper on top ๐.
Tips for Best Results
- Always remove the pan from heat before adding eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother sauce.
- Pecorino Romano gives a more authentic, salty flavor ๐ง.
- Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve immediately while hot for the creamiest texture.
- Pair with a simple green salad ๐ฅ.
- Add a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 55g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Conclusion
This easy homemade spaghetti carbonara recipe proves that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor ๐. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this dish is comforting, quick, and always satisfying. Try it once, and it will quickly become a regular part of your meal rotation.
