Creamy Sauce, Crispy Bacon, and Juicy Protein—Make Olive Garden’s Carbonara at Home

Name: Creamy Sauce, Crispy Bacon, and Juicy Protein—Make Olive Garden’s Carbonara at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 2 large eggs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

April 17, 2025

Recipes

Indulge in Homemade Carbonara: A Taste of Olive Garden

Growing up, family dinners were a sacred time, filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. One dish that always brought us together was Carbonara. The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and juicy protein made it a favorite at our table. I remember the first time I tried to recreate it at home; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Today, I want to share my version of Olive Garden’s Carbonara, so you can create those cherished moments in your own home.

What Makes It Special

This Carbonara recipe stands out for several reasons:

Rich Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy sauce creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

8 oz spaghetti
4 oz bacon, chopped
2 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Let’s Get Cooking

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with bacon, and toss to combine.
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

My Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bacon while cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve With It

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
White wine, such as Pinot Grigio
Tiramisu for dessert

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! Fettuccine or penne would work beautifully in this recipe.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of Carbonara?

A: Yes! You can substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

The Heart of the Dish

This Carbonara recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories. The creamy sauce and crispy bacon remind me of family gatherings, laughter, and love. I hope this dish brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years.

Your Turn

Now it’s your turn to bring this delightful Carbonara into your kitchen! Try the recipe, make it your own, and don’t forget to share your experiences. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!