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Authentic Italian Carbonara

Experience the magic of a true Italian carbonara with this easy and delicious recipe. Creamy, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g spaghetti high-quality pasta preferred
  • 150 g guanciale or pancetta, diced
  • 4 egg yolks or 2 whole eggs + 2 yolks
  • 100 g pecorino romano cheese grated (or parmesan)
  • salt for pasta water and seasoning
  • freshly ground black pepper generous amount

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Boil salted water, cook spaghetti al dente (about 8-9 minutes).
  2. Whisk egg yolks (or eggs and yolks) with pecorino and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
  3. Cook guanciale in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  4. Drain spaghetti, reserving some pasta water. Add pasta to the skillet with guanciale (off heat). Immediately pour egg-cheese mixture over pasta. Mix quickly and vigorously until coated. Add pasta water if needed.
  5. Serve immediately. Add more pepper and pecorino, if desired.

Notes

Add fresh peas or sauteed mushrooms for a richer carbonara. Smoked bacon can substitute for guanciale, but the flavor will differ. Best enjoyed immediately.