Creamy Pasta Carbonara Recipe

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Boil Water [00:06]

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add enough salt to the water so it tastes like the ocean.

Step 2: Prepare the Carbonara Base [00:23]

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, 1 large egg, and 3 large egg yolks. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk until well incorporated and set aside.

Step 3: Crisp the Bacon [02:35]

Dice 12 oz of thick-cut bacon. Place it into a large pan over medium heat and cook until crispy. Once finished, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper-towel-lined plate. Keep the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta [03:32]

Add 12 oz of spaghetti to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente.

Step 5: Reserve Pasta Water [04:09]

Before draining, reserve 1/2 to 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.

Step 6: Create the Sauce [04:28]

Pour 1/4 cup of the reserved hot pasta water into the egg-and-cheese mixture while whisking constantly.

Step 7: Combine and Serve [04:37]

Transfer the hot, drained pasta into a large bowl. Pour the egg mixture and the crispy bacon into the bowl. Toss everything together. If the sauce isn't creamy enough, add more reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until you reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately with a garnish of parsley, if desired.