🛒 Ingredients
- 🍝 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 🥓 6 oz pancetta (or thick-cut bacon), diced
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🧀 1 large egg yolk
- 🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 💧 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
🍳 Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Fettuccine:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Prepare the Pancetta
- Cook the Pancetta:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy, about 5–6 minutes. If using garlic, stir it into the skillet for the last 30 seconds.
- Remove from Heat:
- Turn off the heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling later. Keep the pancetta warm in the pan.
Make the Carbonara Sauce
- Whisk the Eggs:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything
- Toss the Pasta:
- Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the pancetta fat.
- Add the Sauce:
- Remove the skillet from any residual heat. Quickly pour the egg mixture over the hot pasta, tossing continuously to coat. The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating a creamy sauce.
- Adjust Consistency:
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to thin the sauce if needed.
Serve
- Plate and Garnish:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and an extra crack of black pepper.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🧄 Add Garlic: While not traditional, garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor.
- 🥓 Meat Swap: Use guanciale for an authentic Italian version, or thick-cut bacon as an alternative.
- 🌱 Add Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or peas for added color and nutrition.
- 🧊 Quick Tip: Work quickly when combining the sauce with the pasta to avoid scrambling the eggs.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Pair this Fettuccine Carbonara with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. For drinks, serve with a glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Fettuccine Carbonara is a simple yet luxurious dish that relies on a handful of high-quality ingredients to deliver rich, creamy flavors. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a timeless Italian classic everyone will love.
