If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting Italian dish that’s easy to make, look no further than Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic recipe is a favorite for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simplicity. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 150g (5.3 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 100g (3.5 oz) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare 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 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Cook the Pancetta:
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and cook until golden, then remove them.
- Add the diced pancetta (or guanciale) to the skillet and cook until crispy. Remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to coat in the rendered fat.
- Remove the skillet from heat and pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates, and garnish with extra cheese, more black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Authentic pancetta or guanciale and fresh Pecorino Romano cheese will elevate your dish.
- Work quickly: When adding the egg mixture, make sure the pasta is hot but not on direct heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Pasta water is your friend: It helps create a silky sauce, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Spaghetti Carbonara is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough to enjoy any time of the year. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.