Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon and garlic
- Mixing bowl for eggs and cheese
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bacon and garlic. Toss to combine.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and pour the egg mixture over the pasta. Quickly stir until the eggs are cooked and the sauce is creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for cooking bacon and garlic
Serving size:
- 2-3 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 580
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pancetta or ham can be used instead of bacon
- Pecorino Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese
- Half and half can be used instead of heavy cream
Variations:
- Add cooked peas or asparagus for a pop of color and flavor
- Use spaghetti or linguine instead of angel hair pasta
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the egg mixture well to prevent clumps
- Reserve some pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick
- Serve immediately to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick
Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- White wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen it up
- If the eggs scramble, remove the skillet from heat immediately and whisk vigorously to combine
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon and eggs thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness
Food history:
- Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome in the mid-20th century. It is traditionally made with spaghetti, eggs, bacon or pancetta, and Parmesan cheese.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, creamy, salty
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian
Taste: Creamy, Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Garlicky, Bacon, Bacon-Y