Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy pasta dishes! Carbonara is a classic Italian recipe that never goes out of style, and we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering variations to take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic combinations like pancetta and eggs to innovative twists featuring mushrooms, peas, and even truffle oil, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the art of carbonara-making, sharing tips and tricks for perfecting the dish, and showcasing our top 18 creamy pasta carbonara recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s dive in!
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
A rich and creamy Italian dish that combines the flavors of pancetta, eggs, parmesan cheese, and spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Stir in the cooked pancetta and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Pancetta cooking time: 5-7 minutes
– Total preparation time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Carbonara with Peas and Garlic
A rich and creamy pasta dish infused with the sweetness of peas and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in thawed peas. Cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until well coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Season with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Mushrooms and Parmesan
Elevate the classic Italian dish with sautéed mushrooms and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Stir in melted butter and mushroom mixture.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Carbonara with Chili Flakes
A twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, this Spicy Carbonara adds a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon to the pasta and toss again.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Pancetta and Fresh Herbs
This Italian classic is a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With the addition of crispy pancetta and fresh herbs, this recipe takes the original to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pancetta and chopped parsley to the pasta mixture and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggless Carbonara with Creamy Sauce
A rich and creamy pasta dish without eggs, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Carbonara with Zucchini
A creamy and flavorful vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines zucchini noodles with a rich egg substitute and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1/2 cup vegan carbonara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the vegan carbonara sauce to the skillet; stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the nutritional yeast to the sauce; stir to combine.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet; toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Crispy Bacon and Black Pepper
A classic Italian dish gets a bold twist with the addition of crispy bacon and a generous sprinkle of black pepper. This creamy pasta dish is quick to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer. Crack in eggs and whisk constantly until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Combine cooked bacon with pasta and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Carbonara with Rice Noodles
A creamy and rich pasta dish gets a gluten-free makeover with the use of rice noodles, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir constantly until they form a creamy sauce, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked rice noodles to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Truffle Oil and Parmesan
Elevate the Italian classic with the earthy richness of truffle oil and the creaminess of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with butter and pasta water.
5. Pour in egg mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until eggs are scrambled and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in truffle oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Chicken and Spinach
This recipe puts a twist on the classic Italian dish by adding juicy chicken and nutritious spinach to the rich and creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
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 before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside with chicken.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
6. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve creamy consistency.
7. Combine cooked chicken and spinach with pasta mixture. Toss until everything is well coated.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 20-25 minutes
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Carbonara with Roasted Garlic and Pancetta
A classic Italian dish gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of roasted garlic and crispy pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and mashed roasted garlic. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well combined. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Stir in diced pancetta and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
In this twist on the classic Italian dish, sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of sweet and savory flavor to the rich pasta and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with tomato mixture to combine.
5. Pour in egg yolk mixture and toss everything together until eggs are cooked and pasta is well coated.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Shrimp and Lemon Zest
Elevate your pasta game with this shrimp-infused take on the Italian favorite, featuring bright citrus notes from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup guanciale or pancetta, diced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil; cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, cook guanciale or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Transfer to a plate; keep warm.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, guanciale or pancetta, and shrimp to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Asparagus and Crispy Prosciutto
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of tender asparagus and crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add asparagus to the same skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Add reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to coat.
6. Add crispy pancetta and asparagus to the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
7. Top with prosciutto slices and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Broccoli and Toasted Pine Nuts
A rich and creamy take on the classic Italian dish, this recipe adds a pop of green from broccoli and crunch from toasted pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add broccoli to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and stir until well combined. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Stir in cooked pancetta or bacon and broccoli. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe adds a sweet and savory dimension with caramelized onions and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with eggs and toss to combine.
6. Add reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments and continue to toss until spaghetti is well coated.
7. Add cooked pancetta or bacon, caramelized onions, and thyme to the bowl. Toss to combine.
8. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carbonara with Smoked Salmon and Dill
Elevate the classic Italian dish with the rich flavors of smoked salmon and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
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 before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook flaked smoked salmon over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the salmon. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy pasta lover’s dream! This article features 18 mouth-watering Carbonara recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta to innovative variations like Eggless Carbonara with Creamy Sauce, Vegetarian Carbonara with Zucchini, and even Carbonara with Truffle Oil and Parmesan – there’s something for everyone. With ingredients ranging from pancetta and mushrooms to shrimp and sun-dried tomatoes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings. Dive in and discover a world of creamy, dreamy goodness!
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