Gram'S Spaghetti Carbonara
Creamy spaghetti carbonara with ham and Parmesan offers a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for both casual dinners and family gatherings, combining rich cheese and savory ham.
Ingredients
Instructions
- While cooking spaghetti, heat ham cubes in a small frying pan with olive oil.
- Season with ground ginger and ground pepper, then heat through.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese to the spaghetti and toss quickly to coat.
- Add the cooked ham mixture to the pasta and toss again to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors, consider using pancetta instead of ham for a more traditional carbonara taste. If you want to add some freshness, toss in some chopped parsley before serving. For a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Remember to work quickly when mixing the eggs with the hot pasta to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti carbonara with a simple side salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a slice of toasted ciabatta pairs nicely to soak up the creamy sauce. This dish also goes well with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the spaghetti in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gram'S Spaghetti Carbonara contains roughly 586 calories, with 16g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while Parmesan is traditional, you can substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Alternatively, a mix of both cheeses can provide a nice balance. Just ensure the cheese is finely grated to melt smoothly into the pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added flavor. You might also want to increase the amount of cheese to enhance the richness, making it a delightful vegetarian alternative.
What is the best type of pasta to use?
Spaghetti is the classic choice for carbonara, but you can also use fettuccine or linguine if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure you follow the package instructions for perfect al dente pasta.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).