When it comes to comforting and delicious Italian cuisine, Pasta Carbonara stands out as a timeless favorite. This classic dish combines crisp bacon, sweet garlic, and a rich, creamy texture that is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that everyone should try at least once, and with this recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a perfect Pasta Carbonara in no time.
Course: Main Meal Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 640 kcal
Ingredients :
- 16 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 2 whole large eggs, room temperature
- 3 egg yolks, room temperature
- 12 oz thick-cut bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by filling a large pot with salted water and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1-2 cups of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until it is crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, allowing it to drain. Carefully discard all but 1 1/2 tablespoons of the bacon grease from the skillet.
4. Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Working quickly, add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and bacon fat. Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the flavorful mixture. Give the egg mixture another quick whisk, then turn off the heat under the skillet. Slowly pour the egg and Parmesan mixture into the pasta, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Add Bacon and Season
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss everything together. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta carbonara to a serving dish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped Italian parsley and, if desired, additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor and texture.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Carbonara
- Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly with the hot pasta, creating a creamy sauce without scrambling.
- Timing: The pasta should be hot when you add the egg mixture. Keep your reserved pasta water hot as well to ensure a smooth sauce.
- Choosing the Bacon: Thick-cut bacon, pancetta, pork jowl, or guanciale are all excellent choices for this dish.
- Pasta Varieties: While spaghetti is traditional, you can also use fettucine, linguine, bucatini, or rigatoni.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is key to adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Always remember to reserve some before draining the pasta.
- Heat Management: Turning off the heat before adding the egg mixture is crucial to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating a silky sauce.
- Fresh Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if available.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish is best enjoyed immediately. If you must reheat leftovers, do so gently on the stovetop with a bit of reserved pasta water to maintain the creamy texture.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over very low heat, adding a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Conclusion :
Pasta Carbonara is a quintessential Italian dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Its simple yet rich ingredients make it a go-to recipe for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special gathering. By following these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a Pasta Carbonara that rivals any Italian restaurant. Enjoy this delicious dish with family and friends, and savor the classic flavors of Italy.
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
