Name: Creamy Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked; 6 ounces pancetta, chopped; 2 cups half and half; 2 large egg yolks; 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus more for garnish; 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 4 tablespoons basil, chopped

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly simple yet absolutely mouthwatering Creamy Carbonara! This classic Italian pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food that you can whip up in no time. With its rich, velvety sauce and perfect balance of flavors, it’s guaranteed to become your new go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
Irresistibly Creamy: The sauce is silky smooth and coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Spaghetti: The classic choice for carbonara, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
Pancetta: Adds a delicious salty, smoky flavor. Bacon works too if you can’t find pancetta.
Half and Half: Creates a creamy base for the sauce without being too heavy.
Egg Yolks: The secret to that silky texture and rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for maximum flavor and meltability.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds a nice kick and is essential for authentic carbonara.
Basil: Adds a fresh, herby note that complements the rich flavors.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the pancetta and add sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Extra Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Veggie Boost: Add peas, asparagus, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Spice it Up: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Make Creamy Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Pancetta

In a large skillet, cook the chopped pancetta over medium-low heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, simmer the half and half. Whisk in egg yolks and Parmesan cheese to create a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta, crispy pancetta, and fresh basil to the sauce. Toss well and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the pasta – keep it al dente for the best texture.
Temper the eggs by slowly adding a bit of the hot cream before adding them to the skillet.
Toss the pasta in the sauce off the heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve your creamy carbonara piping hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, start with a light antipasto platter and finish with a scoop of gelato.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken when cold, but don’t worry!

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave as it can make the eggs scramble.

Note: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of the sauce can change when stored and reheated.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks?
While traditional carbonara uses whole eggs, using just yolks creates a richer, creamier sauce. If you prefer, you can use whole eggs – just reduce the amount of half and half slightly.

Is it safe to eat the eggs in carbonara?
The heat from the pasta and sauce cooks the eggs, making them safe to eat. However, if you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs or temper them carefully with the hot cream.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the pancetta and add sautéed mushrooms or your favorite veggies instead. You might want to add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor.

What can I substitute for half and half?
You can use a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream, or just heavy cream for an extra indulgent dish.

This Creamy Carbonara is a true taste of Italy that you can enjoy right in your own kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will have you coming back for more. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new favorite pasta dish – it’s just that good! So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious, restaurant-quality meal.