Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

 

Ingredients:

• 350g spaghetti
• 150g pancetta or bacon, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.

4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta or bacon. Remove the skillet from heat and quickly toss the pasta with the pancetta or bacon.

5. Working quickly, pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, stirring constantly to coat the spaghetti. The residual heat will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

6. Taste and season with salt if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.