Spaghetti Carbonara
Creamy and savory, Spaghetti Carbonara features crisp Prosciutto, rich Parmesan, and a silky egg-based sauce, delivering comforting flavors perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Its balance of saltiness and richness appeals to pasta lovers and those seeking authentic Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop the Prosciutto.
- Cook the Prosciutto in 4 Tbsp. melted butter until crisp.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix in grated Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, salt, and white pepper.
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving some cooking water.
- Combine hot pasta with the Prosciutto and butter mixture.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, adding reserved cooking water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in cream or half and half for extra richness.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use guanciale instead of Prosciutto, which is traditional in Spaghetti Ala Carbonara. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to create a creamy sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cream or omit it altogether. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best taste. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spaghetti Carbonara immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements it beautifully. For a delightful meal, consider following this with Italian recipes like Mostaccioli With Bacon And Mushrooms.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to prevent drying out. It’s best not to microwave as it may alter the texture of the sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Carbonara contains roughly 932 calories, with 41g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (171% of the Daily Value), potassium (85% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2473mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
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 make Spaghetti Carbonara without cream?
Yes, traditional Carbonara does not include cream. The creaminess comes from the emulsification of eggs and cheese. However, if you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add cream for richness.
What type of pasta is best for Carbonara?
While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can also use fettuccine, bucatini, or rigatoni. The key is to choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well.
Can I freeze leftover Carbonara?
Freezing is not recommended for Carbonara as the sauce may separate and the texture will change when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, store it in an airtight container for up to a month.
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).