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Spaghetti Carbonara

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Spaghetti Carbonara is a creamy, comforting Italian pasta dish made without cream—just eggs, cheese, pasta water, and pepper. This quick and easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers rich, savory flavor with every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal with guests.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2–3 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. While the pasta cooks, whisk eggs, grated cheese, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
  3. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. If using, sauté garlic for 1 minute, then discard.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet and remove from heat.
  5. Quickly pour in the egg mixture and toss vigorously, gradually adding reserved pasta water until a silky sauce forms and coats the pasta.
  6. Serve immediately, topped with additional cheese, pepper, and parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use Pecorino Romano for a traditional flavor with more bite.
  • Toss pasta quickly off heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Add-ins like red pepper flakes, peas, or spinach can enhance the dish.
  • A pat of butter stirred in at the end adds extra richness.
  • For brightness, grate a little lemon zest over the top.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/spaghetti-carbonara-2/