Just look at this bowl of Heaven or is it Heaven in a bowl?!?! Either way, I’m all about it!
Carbonara is a great dish to make when you want something simple, but satisfying. Also, when your refrigerator and pantry needs to be restocked because you are low on everything. Which was the case for me last week!
I was not feeling a grocery store trip into town, so carbonara it was! (It is a recipe that calls for most things that we always have on hand…regardless is we are low on everything else.)
Not to mention, it’s super fast to pull together and it is so YUMMY!!!
Carbonara with Bacon.
An easy and delicious carbonara that's perfect every time I make it!
Ingredients
For the pasta
- 1/2 package linguine fini (cooked to package directions)
For the sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 slices bacon diced in small pieces
- salt & pepper to taste
- pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp chopped italian parsley
- 3 eggs whisked
- splash half and half (or milk....whatever you have)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan grated cheese
- 1/2 to 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 garlic clove minced
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta in a large pot according to the package directions. (reserve a cup of the pasta water)
-
In a saucepan, brown the bacon bits until crispy and drain on paper towels.
-
Discard of most of the bacon drippings and turn the heat down to low.
-
Whisk the eggs, half and half, cheese and salt and pepper and set aside.
-
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan and saute until fragrant.
-
Add in the pasta and saute in the drippings, garlic and red pepper flakes until fully coated.
-
Gently and quickly stir in the whisked eggs, cream and cheese mixture. (Making sure the heat is on very low so that the eggs do not scramble.) VERY IMPORTANT!
-
Add the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you have reached the consistency that you like.
-
Taste for seasoning. Add more if needed and then sprinkle with chopped parsley.
-
Best served immediately. Enjoy
Recipe Notes
*Pancetta is a great substitution for the bacon and is the more Italian meat for this dish.
*A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg also adds a depth of flavor if you are so inclined. Just a suggestion.
Don't hesitate to add or omit any ingredients. This recipe really is just a guide and if you remember to work quickly with the eggs on low heat....the carbonara will be perfect every time.
Excuse all of the black pepper….I like my carbonara splattered with it!!! Feel free to omit or reduce the black pepper on your plate. Insert wink here….Enjoy!
Oh, my!!! I am loving all of your posts!!! This looks amazing!!! I will be trying this one for sure! You are amazing!!!!