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Classic Creamy Spaghetti Carbonara Easy Dinner Recipe

by on September 5, 2025

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Are you ready to whip up a delicious, creamy spaghetti carbonara? This easy dinner recipe will impress your family and friends. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. I’ll guide you through each step, making it fun and easy. Let’s dive into this classic dish that is rich in flavor and sure to satisfy your cravings!

- 400g spaghetti - 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced - 2 large eggs - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt (to taste) - Freshly ground black pepper (to taste) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To create a delicious dish, gather these key ingredients. Spaghetti is the star. For a rich flavor, use pancetta or guanciale. The eggs and cream will make the sauce creamy. Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. Garlic gives a nice aroma. Use salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness. - For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or zucchini instead of pancetta. - Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. - Choose gluten-free pasta if needed. These substitutions help you enjoy carbonara no matter your diet. Whether you avoid meat or gluten, you can still savor this dish. Explore these options to make it your own! {{ingredient_image_2}} To boil spaghetti perfectly, start with a large pot of water. Add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means firm but cooked through. Once cooked, it’s vital to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This water helps make the sauce creamy later. For crispy pancetta, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until it's golden brown and crispy. Next, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for one more minute until the garlic smells good. Avoid burning it, as burnt garlic can ruin your dish. In a medium bowl, crack two large eggs. Add one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture until smooth. It should look creamy and uniform. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Be careful with the salt, as the pancetta and cheese add saltiness. Lower the heat on the skillet. Add the drained spaghetti with the crispy pancetta and garlic. Pour the cream mixture over the pasta. Toss the noodles gently to coat them well. If the sauce looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water. Stir it in a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess. Remove the skillet from heat right away. Serve the creamy spaghetti carbonara in warm bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. You can also add more grated Parmesan for extra flavor and a beautiful look. The key to a creamy texture is the right mix of eggs and cream. Use two large eggs for richness. Add one cup of heavy cream to make it even smoother. Whisk them well to blend. This mixture should be thick but pourable. Using pasta water makes a big difference. Reserve one cup of it before draining. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce's thickness. Add it slowly until you reach your desired creaminess. One big mistake is overcooking the spaghetti. Follow the package directions closely. Cook until it’s al dente, not mushy. This keeps the pasta firm and helps it hold the sauce. Another mistake is cooking garlic too long. Sauté it for just a minute. If it burns, it will taste bitter. You want it fragrant, not charred. You need a few essential tools for this recipe. A large pot is needed to boil the spaghetti. A good skillet is key for cooking the pancetta and garlic. Choose one that heats evenly to avoid hot spots. A whisk is also important for mixing the cream and egg. Using quality kitchen tools can make cooking easier. It helps you achieve the best results every time. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh eggs, quality pancetta, and freshly grated Parmesan will elevate the flavor of your carbonara immensely. Control the Heat: Make sure to lower the heat when adding the cream mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gentle heat helps create a creamy sauce. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water. It’s perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce without watering it down. Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful presentation! {{image_4}} The classic Roman Carbonara uses only eggs, cheese, and guanciale. You get a rich, creamy sauce from the eggs and cheese alone. This version has a lighter texture and a more authentic taste. In contrast, the creamy version adds heavy cream. This makes the sauce thicker and richer. Many people enjoy this style, especially if they want a comforting meal. It’s easier for some home cooks to master as well. You can make a plant-based Carbonara by swapping out a few key ingredients. Use mushrooms or smoked tofu instead of pancetta. These add a nice umami flavor. For a vegan option, replace the heavy cream and cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast. This still gives you that creamy feel but keeps it plant-based. You can also use chickpea pasta to boost protein and fiber. To amp up the flavor of your Carbonara, consider adding extra ingredients. Peas add sweetness and color, making the dish pop. Mushrooms can provide a hearty texture and earthy taste. You might also toss in spinach for some added greens. Each of these ingredients brings its unique flavor, making your dish even more exciting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of taste. To keep your creamy spaghetti carbonara fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Your leftovers will stay good for about three days. When you need to reheat your carbonara, do it gently. Use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to avoid hot spots. If you see it getting dry, add more liquid. This will help keep the flavor rich and smooth. You can freeze spaghetti carbonara, but it may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date. It will last about two months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently, adding a little cream or milk as needed. This will help bring back some creaminess. The secret to creamy carbonara lies in the right mix of egg and cream. Use two large eggs and one cup of heavy cream. This blend creates a smooth sauce. The key is to mix them well before adding to the pasta. The heat from the pasta helps make it creamy without scrambling the eggs. Yes, you can use spaghetti! Spaghetti is the classic choice for carbonara. However, you can try fettuccine or bucatini for a twist. Each pasta shape holds the sauce differently, but spaghetti is always a winner. To prevent curdling, keep the heat low when mixing in the sauce. Make sure the pasta is hot but not boiling when you add the egg and cream mix. Stir quickly to combine everything. If it thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it. A light white wine works best with carbonara. Try a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines balance the richness of the dish. They also enhance the flavors without overpowering them. You can make a low-calorie version by using less cream and more vegetables. Swap heavy cream for a low-fat option or use broth. Reduce the amount of pancetta and add spinach or zucchini for extra flavor without many calories. This post covered everything you need to make a great spaghetti carbonara. We explored essential ingredients and handy substitutions. You learned step-by-step cooking methods, tips for creaminess, and common mistakes to avoid. Variations like vegetarian options add more choices. Finally, we discussed proper storage and reheating techniques to keep your dish fresh. Enjoy making and sharing your creamy carbonara masterpiece! It's a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Rich Creaminess: This recipe offers a luxurious creamy texture that perfectly coats each strand of spaghetti, making every bite indulgent and satisfying.
  2. Quick and Easy:
  3. Authentic Flavors: The combination of pancetta, garlic, and Parmesan delivers an authentic Italian flavor that transports you straight to Italy with every forkful.
  4. Customizable: This carbonara can easily be adapted with added vegetables or proteins, allowing you to personalize it to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 400g spaghetti

– 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced

– 2 large eggs

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– Salt (to taste)

– Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To create a delicious dish, gather these key ingredients. Spaghetti is the star. For a rich flavor, use pancetta or guanciale. The eggs and cream will make the sauce creamy. Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. Garlic gives a nice aroma. Use salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

Suggested Ingredient Substitutions

– For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or zucchini instead of pancetta.

– Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free choice.

– Choose gluten-free pasta if needed.

These substitutions help you enjoy carbonara no matter your diet. Whether you avoid meat or gluten, you can still savor this dish. Explore these options to make it your own!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Spaghetti

To boil spaghetti perfectly, start with a large pot of water. Add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means firm but cooked through. Once cooked, it’s vital to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This water helps make the sauce creamy later.

Sautéing the Pancetta

For crispy pancetta, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until it’s golden brown and crispy. Next, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for one more minute until the garlic smells good. Avoid burning it, as burnt garlic can ruin your dish.

Preparing the Cream Mixture

In a medium bowl, crack two large eggs. Add one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture until smooth. It should look creamy and uniform. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Be careful with the salt, as the pancetta and cheese add saltiness.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Lower the heat on the skillet. Add the drained spaghetti with the crispy pancetta and garlic. Pour the cream mixture over the pasta. Toss the noodles gently to coat them well. If the sauce looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water. Stir it in a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Remove the skillet from heat right away. Serve the creamy spaghetti carbonara in warm bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. You can also add more grated Parmesan for extra flavor and a beautiful look.

Tips & Tricks

Methods for a Creamier Texture

The key to a creamy texture is the right mix of eggs and cream. Use two large eggs for richness. Add one cup of heavy cream to make it even smoother. Whisk them well to blend. This mixture should be thick but pourable.

Using pasta water makes a big difference. Reserve one cup of it before draining. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s thickness. Add it slowly until you reach your desired creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One big mistake is overcooking the spaghetti. Follow the package directions closely. Cook until it’s al dente, not mushy. This keeps the pasta firm and helps it hold the sauce.

Another mistake is cooking garlic too long. Sauté it for just a minute. If it burns, it will taste bitter. You want it fragrant, not charred.

Recommended Tools and Equipment

You need a few essential tools for this recipe. A large pot is needed to boil the spaghetti. A good skillet is key for cooking the pancetta and garlic. Choose one that heats evenly to avoid hot spots. A whisk is also important for mixing the cream and egg.

Using quality kitchen tools can make cooking easier. It helps you achieve the best results every time.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh eggs, quality pancetta, and freshly grated Parmesan will elevate the flavor of your carbonara immensely.
  2. Control the Heat: Make sure to lower the heat when adding the cream mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gentle heat helps create a creamy sauce.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water. It’s perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce without watering it down.
  4. Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful presentation!

Variations

Classic Roman Style vs. Cream-Based

The classic Roman Carbonara uses only eggs, cheese, and guanciale. You get a rich, creamy sauce from the eggs and cheese alone. This version has a lighter texture and a more authentic taste. In contrast, the creamy version adds heavy cream. This makes the sauce thicker and richer. Many people enjoy this style, especially if they want a comforting meal. It’s easier for some home cooks to master as well.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

You can make a plant-based Carbonara by swapping out a few key ingredients. Use mushrooms or smoked tofu instead of pancetta. These add a nice umami flavor. For a vegan option, replace the heavy cream and cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast. This still gives you that creamy feel but keeps it plant-based. You can also use chickpea pasta to boost protein and fiber.

Flavor Enhancements

To amp up the flavor of your Carbonara, consider adding extra ingredients. Peas add sweetness and color, making the dish pop. Mushrooms can provide a hearty texture and earthy taste. You might also toss in spinach for some added greens. Each of these ingredients brings its unique flavor, making your dish even more exciting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of taste.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To keep your creamy spaghetti carbonara fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Your leftovers will stay good for about three days.

Reheating Tips

When you need to reheat your carbonara, do it gently. Use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to avoid hot spots. If you see it getting dry, add more liquid. This will help keep the flavor rich and smooth.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze spaghetti carbonara, but it may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date. It will last about two months in the freezer.

To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently, adding a little cream or milk as needed. This will help bring back some creaminess.

FAQs

What is the secret to a creamy carbonara?

The secret to creamy carbonara lies in the right mix of egg and cream. Use two large eggs and one cup of heavy cream. This blend creates a smooth sauce. The key is to mix them well before adding to the pasta. The heat from the pasta helps make it creamy without scrambling the eggs.

Can I use spaghetti instead of other pasta?

Yes, you can use spaghetti! Spaghetti is the classic choice for carbonara. However, you can try fettuccine or bucatini for a twist. Each pasta shape holds the sauce differently, but spaghetti is always a winner.

How do I keep my carbonara from curdling?

To prevent curdling, keep the heat low when mixing in the sauce. Make sure the pasta is hot but not boiling when you add the egg and cream mix. Stir quickly to combine everything. If it thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

What wine pairs best with spaghetti carbonara?

A light white wine works best with carbonara. Try a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines balance the richness of the dish. They also enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

Is there a low-calorie version of spaghetti carbonara?

You can make a low-calorie version by using less cream and more vegetables. Swap heavy cream for a low-fat option or use broth. Reduce the amount of pancetta and add spinach or zucchini for extra flavor without many calories.

This post covered everything you need to make a great spaghetti carbonara. We explored essential ingredients and handy substitutions. You learned step-by-step cooking methods, tips for creaminess, and common mistakes to avoid. Variations like vegetarian options add more choices. Finally, we discussed proper storage and reheating techniques to keep your dish fresh. Enjoy making and sharing your creamy carbonara masterpiece! It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the tabl

- 400g spaghetti - 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced - 2 large eggs - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt (to taste) - Freshly ground black pepper (to taste) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To create a delicious dish, gather these key ingredients. Spaghetti is the star. For a rich flavor, use pancetta or guanciale. The eggs and cream will make the sauce creamy. Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. Garlic gives a nice aroma. Use salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness. - For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or zucchini instead of pancetta. - Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. - Choose gluten-free pasta if needed. These substitutions help you enjoy carbonara no matter your diet. Whether you avoid meat or gluten, you can still savor this dish. Explore these options to make it your own! {{ingredient_image_2}} To boil spaghetti perfectly, start with a large pot of water. Add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means firm but cooked through. Once cooked, it’s vital to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This water helps make the sauce creamy later. For crispy pancetta, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally until it's golden brown and crispy. Next, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for one more minute until the garlic smells good. Avoid burning it, as burnt garlic can ruin your dish. In a medium bowl, crack two large eggs. Add one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture until smooth. It should look creamy and uniform. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Be careful with the salt, as the pancetta and cheese add saltiness. Lower the heat on the skillet. Add the drained spaghetti with the crispy pancetta and garlic. Pour the cream mixture over the pasta. Toss the noodles gently to coat them well. If the sauce looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water. Stir it in a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess. Remove the skillet from heat right away. Serve the creamy spaghetti carbonara in warm bowls. For a nice touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. You can also add more grated Parmesan for extra flavor and a beautiful look. The key to a creamy texture is the right mix of eggs and cream. Use two large eggs for richness. Add one cup of heavy cream to make it even smoother. Whisk them well to blend. This mixture should be thick but pourable. Using pasta water makes a big difference. Reserve one cup of it before draining. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce's thickness. Add it slowly until you reach your desired creaminess. One big mistake is overcooking the spaghetti. Follow the package directions closely. Cook until it’s al dente, not mushy. This keeps the pasta firm and helps it hold the sauce. Another mistake is cooking garlic too long. Sauté it for just a minute. If it burns, it will taste bitter. You want it fragrant, not charred. You need a few essential tools for this recipe. A large pot is needed to boil the spaghetti. A good skillet is key for cooking the pancetta and garlic. Choose one that heats evenly to avoid hot spots. A whisk is also important for mixing the cream and egg. Using quality kitchen tools can make cooking easier. It helps you achieve the best results every time. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh eggs, quality pancetta, and freshly grated Parmesan will elevate the flavor of your carbonara immensely. Control the Heat: Make sure to lower the heat when adding the cream mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gentle heat helps create a creamy sauce. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water. It’s perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce without watering it down. Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful presentation! {{image_4}} The classic Roman Carbonara uses only eggs, cheese, and guanciale. You get a rich, creamy sauce from the eggs and cheese alone. This version has a lighter texture and a more authentic taste. In contrast, the creamy version adds heavy cream. This makes the sauce thicker and richer. Many people enjoy this style, especially if they want a comforting meal. It’s easier for some home cooks to master as well. You can make a plant-based Carbonara by swapping out a few key ingredients. Use mushrooms or smoked tofu instead of pancetta. These add a nice umami flavor. For a vegan option, replace the heavy cream and cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast. This still gives you that creamy feel but keeps it plant-based. You can also use chickpea pasta to boost protein and fiber. To amp up the flavor of your Carbonara, consider adding extra ingredients. Peas add sweetness and color, making the dish pop. Mushrooms can provide a hearty texture and earthy taste. You might also toss in spinach for some added greens. Each of these ingredients brings its unique flavor, making your dish even more exciting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of taste. To keep your creamy spaghetti carbonara fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Your leftovers will stay good for about three days. When you need to reheat your carbonara, do it gently. Use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to avoid hot spots. If you see it getting dry, add more liquid. This will help keep the flavor rich and smooth. You can freeze spaghetti carbonara, but it may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date. It will last about two months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently, adding a little cream or milk as needed. This will help bring back some creaminess. The secret to creamy carbonara lies in the right mix of egg and cream. Use two large eggs and one cup of heavy cream. This blend creates a smooth sauce. The key is to mix them well before adding to the pasta. The heat from the pasta helps make it creamy without scrambling the eggs. Yes, you can use spaghetti! Spaghetti is the classic choice for carbonara. However, you can try fettuccine or bucatini for a twist. Each pasta shape holds the sauce differently, but spaghetti is always a winner. To prevent curdling, keep the heat low when mixing in the sauce. Make sure the pasta is hot but not boiling when you add the egg and cream mix. Stir quickly to combine everything. If it thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it. A light white wine works best with carbonara. Try a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. These wines balance the richness of the dish. They also enhance the flavors without overpowering them. You can make a low-calorie version by using less cream and more vegetables. Swap heavy cream for a low-fat option or use broth. Reduce the amount of pancetta and add spinach or zucchini for extra flavor without many calories. This post covered everything you need to make a great spaghetti carbonara. We explored essential ingredients and handy substitutions. You learned step-by-step cooking methods, tips for creaminess, and common mistakes to avoid. Variations like vegetarian options add more choices. Finally, we discussed proper storage and reheating techniques to keep your dish fresh. Enjoy making and sharing your creamy carbonara masterpiece! It's a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.

Creamy Spaghetti Carbonara Delight

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring pancetta and Parmesan cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g spaghetti
  • 150 g pancetta or guanciale, diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
  • While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale to the skillet. Allow it to cook for approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
  • In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and add the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture together vigorously until you have a smooth and uniform consistency. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste — remember, the pancetta and Parmesan will add saltiness, so be cautious.
  • Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with the crispy pancetta and garlic. Carefully pour the cream mixture over the pasta while simultaneously tossing the noodles to ensure they are evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired creamy consistency.
  • Remove the skillet from heat promptly. Serve the creamy spaghetti carbonara immediately in warm bowls. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

Adjust seasoning based on the saltiness of pancetta and Parmesan.
Keyword carbonara, creamy, pasta, spaghetti

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