Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara

3 servings
This isn’t your traditional carbonara. This version is made with bacon! I refer to spaghetti carbonara as “breakfast spaghetti.”

Ingredients

  • 8 oz dried spaghetti
  • 4 oz bacon

    chopped into small pieces

  • 1 minced garlic
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

    or Pecorino Romano

  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons reserved pasta water

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook spaghetti to al dente according to pasta package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta cooking water. Drain pasta and set aside.

  2. 2

    Place bacon in a single layer in a large cold pan. Set over low heat and slowly cook bacon to render fat. Once bacon has released some grease, increase to medium heat. 

  3. 3

    Flip bacon pieces are needed for even cooking. Continue to cook based on your desired of crispiness. Remove from heat and remove bacon pieces and allow to drain on a paper towel lined plate. Keep rendered bacon fat in skillet.

  4. 4

    In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, grated cheese, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water until smooth. Set aside.

  5. 5

    Heat skillet with bacon fat over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic. Stir and cook until fragrant and lightly browned, about 45-60 seconds. Add cooked pasta and bacon. Toss to combine.

  6. 6

    Pour in egg mixture. Quickly toss to coat pasta in sauce while the heat is still on, about 30-40 seconds. At this point, the "sauce" should have thickened. Remove from heat.

  7. 7

    If sauce is too thick, add in splash of reserved pasta water. Season with additional cheese and black pepper, as desired. Serve immediately. 

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara

25 min3 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving a comforting pasta dish with a delicious twist that’s ready faster than takeout? This Spaghetti Carbonara recipe offers a truly unique, bacon-centric experience that's so satisfying, we affectionately call it 'breakfast spaghetti'. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and delivers big on taste.Why This Recipe WorksUnlike classic carbonara, this version thoughtfully champions the smoky, savory depth of bacon, creating a rich and indulgent meal that feels both familiar and exciting. The interplay between rendered bacon, tender spaghetti, and a luscious egg-and-cheese sauce delivers a comforting pasta dish that truly stands out. This recipe ensures a creamy texture and irresistible salty bites, all without compromising on that authentic carbonara feel, making it a standout weeknight option.What to ExpectPrepare for a truly decadent bowl of spaghetti, where each strand is coated in a velvety, glossy sauce made from fresh eggs and generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese. The savory bacon provides an incredible textural and flavor counterpoint, adding salty, meaty bits to every forkful. A subtle hint of minced garlic and a generous grind of fresh black pepper elevate the foundational flavors, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying experience that feels utterly comforting. This isn't just dinner; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, perfectly embodying its 'breakfast spaghetti' moniker with its hearty, satisfying appeal.## Customization & VariationsWhile bacon is undeniably the star of this carbonara, you could certainly experiment with other cured pork like pancetta if you prefer a slightly milder, less smoky flavor profile. For an extra sharp, salty kick that some pasta lovers adore, you might opt for Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan, which offers a nuttier, milder taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of minced garlic to your personal taste, or even omit it entirely if you prefer a simpler, pure bacon and cheese focus.This Spaghetti Carbonara makes a wonderfully satisfying meal on its own, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend brunch. Serve it immediately to enjoy its creamy texture at its absolute best, perhaps with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions