Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara with Just 5 Ingredients

Name: Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara with Just 5 Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti; 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced; 2 large eggs; 100g grated Pecorino Romano cheese; Freshly ground black pepper; Salt for pasta water

By Jason Griffith

April 19, 2025 3 Min Read

Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara: A Taste of Italy with Just 5 Ingredients

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday. It was a time for laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that always made an appearance was spaghetti carbonara. The rich, creamy sauce and the savory pancetta brought warmth to our hearts and bellies. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cherished memory that I now share with my own family.

What Makes It Special

This authentic spaghetti carbonara recipe stands out for several reasons:

Simplicity: With just five ingredients, it’s easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
Authenticity: This recipe stays true to traditional Roman methods, ensuring a genuine taste of Italy.
Quick Cooking: It can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comfort Food: The creamy texture and savory notes create a dish that feels like a warm hug.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

400g spaghetti
150g pancetta or guanciale, diced
3 large eggs
100g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
Freshly cracked black pepper

Let’s Get Cooking

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano, and a generous amount of black pepper.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Quickly add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta, removing it from the heat.
Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese and black pepper.

My Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a clove of minced garlic to the pancetta while it cooks.
Make sure to remove the pan from the heat before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
Use high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese and pancetta, for the best flavor.

What to Serve With It

Garlic bread
Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio
Classic Tiramisu for dessert

FAQs

Q: Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

A: While bacon can be used, it will alter the flavor profile. Pancetta or guanciale is recommended for authenticity.

Q: Is it necessary to use Pecorino Romano?

A: Yes, Pecorino Romano adds a distinct flavor that is essential to traditional carbonara. However, you can substitute with Parmesan in a pinch.

The Heart of the Dish

This spaghetti carbonara recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to my roots and a way to share love with those around me. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings and the joy of cooking together. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this dish as I do.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this authentic spaghetti carbonara recipe in your own kitchen. Feel free to tweak it to your taste and share your experiences. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!