Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe Made Easy

Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe: A Classic Italian Comfort Food

Spaghetti Carbonara is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. This classic Italian pasta dish, originating from Rome, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food enthusiasts and home cooks worldwide.

With just a handful of ingredients—spaghetti, egg yolks, guanciale or pancetta, Pecorino Romano, and pepper—it delivers a rich, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and approachable.

Are you ready to master the art of Spaghetti Carbonara? From a step-by-step authentic recipe to essential tools and expert tips, we’ve got everything you need to create this timeless favorite in your own kitchen!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure here.

Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Perfecting Spaghetti Carbonara begins with using the right ingredients and following the traditional method. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreate this iconic dish:

Ingredients:

• 350g spaghetti
• 150g guanciale (or pancetta as a substitute), diced 
• 3 large egg yolks 
• 50g Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated 
• Freshly ground black pepper 
• Salt (for boiling the pasta)

Instructions:

• Prepare Your Pasta Water 

Fill a large pot with water, season generously with salt, and bring it to a boil. The water should taste like the sea—it’s your only chance to season the spaghetti itself!

• Cook the Guanciale 

While the water heats up, add the diced guanciale to a skillet and cook over medium heat. There’s no need for oil as the guanciale will release its own fat. Stir occasionally until golden and crispy. Turn off the heat but leave the rendered fat in the pan—it’s liquid gold for your Carbonara!

• Cook the Spaghetti 

Once your water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until just shy of al dente (you want it to finish cooking in the sauce). Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.

• Mix the Egg Mixture 

While the pasta cooks, whisk together the egg yolks, two-thirds of the Pecorino Romano, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. This will be your creamy sauce base.

• Combine It All 

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the guanciale over low heat. Gently toss to coat the pasta in the rendered fat. Remove from heat and add the egg mixture. Toss quickly and continuously, using a little reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

• Finish and Serve 

Sprinkle with the remaining Pecorino Romano and an extra crack of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy your authentic Spaghetti Carbonara masterpiece!

Read more: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Essential Tools for Cooking Spaghetti Carbonara

Cooking Spaghetti Carbonara is a breeze when you have the right tools. These essentials make the process seamless and enjoyable:

• Large Stockpot: A high-quality stockpot ensures your spaghetti has plenty of room to boil without sticking.

• Non-Stick Skillet: For rendering guanciale perfectly and tossing the pasta with the sauce.

• Fine Grater: A microplane grater is ideal for finely grating Pecorino Romano, allowing it to melt effortlessly into the dish.

• Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta with the creamy sauce to coat every strand evenly.

Looking to upgrade your kitchen setup? Check out our Top Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking for expert recommendations that make every dish shine.

Tips for Perfecting Spaghetti Carbonara

Even a simple recipe like Spaghetti Carbonara has its nuances. Follow these expert tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Guanciale if Possible 

While pancetta is a suitable substitute, guanciale (cured pork jowl) delivers a richer, more authentic flavor.

• Work Quickly with the Sauce 

The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs—you don’t need extra heat, which could scramble them.

• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water 

The starchy cooking water is key to emulsifying the sauce and creating that creamy texture.

• Keep It Traditional 

Skip the cream and garlic—while delicious in other recipes, they aren’t part of the authentic Carbonara experience!

• Perfect the Consistency 

Your sauce should be silky and cling to the pasta. If it looks too thick, add a splash more pasta water and toss.

Explore More Pasta Recipes with This Cookbook Recommendation

Love Italian cooking? Expand your repertoire with a comprehensive cookbook featuring authentic Italian recipes, including pasta classics like Spaghetti Carbonara and beyond. Packed with family stories, regional techniques, and modern twists, it’s a must-have for any pasta enthusiast.

Bring the Taste of Rome to Your Table

Spaghetti Carbonara is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With minimal ingredients and a few helpful tips, you can create this iconic dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, grab those essential tools, and give this recipe a try. We’d love to hear how your Carbonara turned out! Drop a comment below or share your photos on social media using the hashtag #CarbonaraCreations.

Buon Appetito!