Classic Italian Carbonara With Bacon Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, savory delight of Classic Italian Carbonara. Imagine twirling forkfuls of perfectly al dente pasta coated in a silky, cheesy sauce with crispy, golden-brown bacon bits providing just the right amount of crunch. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity.

I first fell in love with carbonara during a trip to Italy, where I discovered its authentic charm: no heavy cream, just a delicate balance of eggs, cheese, and pancetta (or in this case, bacon). Now, it’s my go-to recipe for dinner parties and weeknight indulgence. Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You'll Love This Classic Italian Carbonara

Prepare to add this recipe to your list of must-try meals. Classic Italian Carbonara is a dish that’s as quick as it is irresistible, perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving comfort food.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in less than 30 minutes.

The flavor is next-level. Salty bacon, nutty Parmesan cheese, and the rich, creamy egg-based sauce come together to form a symphony of taste. Plus, freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy kick that ties everything together.

It’s a great dish for entertaining. Despite its simplicity, carbonara always feels indulgent and impressive, making it a foolproof choice for impressing guests.

Finally, this recipe is wonderfully customizable. Whether you prefer pancetta, guanciale, or regular bacon, the results are always delicious. Plus, you can tweak the cheese or pasta type to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of carbonara lies in its simplicity, and each ingredient plays a starring role. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta: Traditionally, spaghetti is used, but bucatini, fettuccine, or even rigatoni work beautifully. Opt for high-quality pasta to elevate the dish.
• Bacon: While guanciale or pancetta is traditional, thick-cut bacon is a fantastic substitute. Its smoky, savory flavor complements the dish perfectly.
• Eggs: Use large, fresh eggs to create the luscious sauce. You’ll need whole eggs and an extra yolk or two for added creaminess.
• Cheese: Authentic carbonara uses Pecorino Romano, but Parmesan works if that’s what you have. Grate it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
• Garlic: Though not always traditional, a clove of minced garlic adds a subtle aroma that elevates the bacon.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is a non-negotiable. It’s a key component of the dish’s distinctive flavor.
• Pasta Water: Save some starchy pasta cooking water to help emulsify the sauce.

Special equipment: A large skillet and a pasta pot are all you need. A whisk or fork for mixing the egg and cheese is helpful too!

How to Make Classic Italian Carbonara With Bacon

Creating this iconic dish is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti (or pasta of choice) until it’s just shy of al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Bacon
   While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Mix the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together 2 whole eggs, 2 egg yolks, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add a generous amount of black pepper for flavor.
4. Combine Pasta and Bacon
   Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the bacon fat over low heat. Stir to coat the pasta in the flavorful fat.
5. Create the Sauce
   Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
6. Add Bacon and Serve
   Stir in the crispy bacon and serve immediately. Garnish with extra cheese, more black pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Cooking time is about 20 minutes, making this a perfect quick meal with gourmet flair.

Storage Options

While carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored with care:

• Refrigerate: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Although not ideal, you can freeze carbonara in a pinch. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about carbonara is its versatility. Here are some variations to try:

• Swap the Bacon: Use pancetta, guanciale, or even turkey bacon for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and a dash of smoked paprika for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Options: Pecorino Romano is traditional, but try mixing in Grana Padano or Asiago for a unique flavor.
• Pasta Choices: While spaghetti is classic, short pasta like rigatoni or penne works well for a heartier dish.
• Add Veggies: Toss in peas, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own. No matter the tweaks, the result will always be delicious!

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