Carbonara Easy

Learn to make Carbonara Easy with this simple guide using eggs, cheese, and bacon. No cream needed! Perfect for beginners and pasta lovers alike.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 people

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

4 large eggs
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese or a mix of Pecorino and Parmesan
8 ounces bacon, pancetta, or guanciale cut into small pieces
to taste black pepper lots of freshly ground
1-2 cloves garlic optional for extra flavor
1/2 cup heavy cream optional for creamy version

Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Medium bowl
Mixing spoon or tongs
Colander

Method

Fill a large pot with water, add salt until it tastes like the sea, and bring to a rolling boil.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
While the bacon is cooking, prepare the pasta according to package directions but set a timer for one minute less than recommended.
Crack eggs into a medium bowl and whisk with grated cheese and black pepper; let the mixture sit at room temperature.
Scoop out at least 1 cup of pasta water and set it aside before draining the pasta.
Add the hot pasta directly to the skillet with the bacon (or transfer everything to a large mixing bowl).
Remove from heat and quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, tossing continuously until creamy.
If the sauce seems thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches desired consistency.
For the creamy version, mix cream with the eggs and cheese, and gently heat on low while stirring until thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving with extra cheese and black pepper on top.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make sure to warm your serving bowls to keep the pasta hot. Save extra pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. Use fresh, room temperature eggs for the best results. If the sauce becomes lumpy, add a little cream and blend to smooth it out. Feel free to experiment with vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce's texture.