Bacon Carbonara Pasta Recipe

Bacon Carbonara Pasta is a delicious and creamy Italian classic that brings together the bold flavors of crispy bacon, rich cheese, and garlic. This quick and easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. With its creamy sauce created by the heat of the pasta and eggs, every bite is a delightful experience.

Why Make This Recipe?

There are countless reasons to try Bacon Carbonara Pasta. First and foremost, it’s incredibly tasty, combining the savory flavors of bacon with the lusciousness of the cheese. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. The simplicity of this recipe means you don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home.

How to Make Bacon Carbonara Pasta

Creating Bacon Carbonara Pasta is straightforward when you follow these simple steps. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

• 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
• 150g bacon, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Pasta with Bacon: Remove the skillet from heat. Quickly add the hot pasta to the skillet containing the bacon and garlic. Stir well to combine.
5. Create the Sauce: Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta. Stir swiftly to create a creamy sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, giving you a rich and velvety texture.
6. Serve: Serve the carbonara immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Bacon Carbonara Pasta

For a beautiful presentation, serve the Bacon Carbonara Pasta in warm bowls. Add a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and a fresh flavor boost. Pair the dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a perfect meal.

How to Store Bacon Carbonara Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra cheese to enhance creaminess.

Tips to Make Bacon Carbonara Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and good-quality Parmesan cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Eggs: The key to a creamy sauce is to add the egg mixture to the hot pasta off the heat to prevent scrambling.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try adding Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper flavor if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute bacon with mushrooms or smoked tofu for a vegetarian spin.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate peas or spinach to add some greens to the dish.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, while spaghetti and fettuccine are traditional choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer!

2. Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan cheese adds a classic flavor to carbonara, you can substitute it with any hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you must make it ahead, store it in the fridge and reheat gently while adding a bit of liquid for creaminess.

In conclusion, Bacon Carbonara Pasta is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Follow the steps above for a comforting meal that you’re sure to enjoy!

Bacon Carbonara Pasta

A delicious and creamy Italian classic combining crispy bacon, rich cheese, and garlic, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta

• 200 g spaghetti or fettuccine Use either type based on preference.

Sauce Ingredients

• 150 g bacon, diced Use good quality bacon for better flavor.
• 2 large eggs Fresh eggs recommended.
• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese Or substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Add more if you love garlic.
• Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference.
• Chopped parsley, for garnish For color and freshness.

Instructions

 

Cooking Pasta

• Prepare the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Cooking Bacon

• In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Preparing Sauce

• In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Combining Ingredients

• Remove the skillet from heat and quickly add the hot pasta to the skillet containing the bacon and garlic. Stir well to combine.
• Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring swiftly to create a creamy sauce. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs.

Serving

• Serve the carbonara immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a beautiful presentation, serve in warm bowls and pair with a crisp green salad and white wine. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water or extra cheese.

Keyword Bacon Carbonara, easy dinner, Italian Cuisine, Pasta, Quick Recipe