Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this incredibly simple pasta carbonara sauce recipe. A timeless Italian culinary masterpiece, it elevates the humble pasta to culinary heights. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can craft a creamy, velvety sauce that will leave you craving for more.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those lazy weekends when convenience is key. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey and discover the secrets of creating the perfect simple pasta carbonara sauce.
Ingredients and Equipments
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried spaghetti
- 6 ounces pancetta, cut into small pieces (or bacon if pancetta is unavailable)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Equipments:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Large bowl
How to Make Simple Pasta Carbonara Sauce
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, as per the package instructions. Drain the pasta in a colander and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
2. Cook the Pancetta:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pancetta. Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta. Toss continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out.
Tips or Possible Variations
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use guanciale instead of pancetta.
- If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Asiago or Grana Padano.
- Don’t overcook the eggs, otherwise they will become scrambled.
Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms or peas for a more flavorful and colorful sauce.
- Top with a poached or fried egg for an extra layer of richness.
- Use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.
Once you’ve mastered this simple pasta carbonara sauce recipe, you’ll have a go-to recipe that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish for a special occasion, this versatile sauce is sure to become a favorite.
So, gather your ingredients and equipment and let’s indulge in the culinary delight of a classic Italian dish. Buon Appetito!