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Spaghetti Carbonara with Crisp Pancetta

Elina James
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
  • 4 oz (115 g) pancetta (or guanciale), diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan, or a mix)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, if pancetta is lean)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, for pasta water

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  • Crisp the pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until golden and crisp (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat but leave the rendered fat in the pan.
  • Prepare the egg mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and grated Pecorino Romano. Add a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Combine pasta and pancetta: Add hot, drained pasta to the skillet with pancetta. Toss to coat in rendered fat.
  • Create the carbonara sauce: Remove skillet from direct heat to prevent scrambling eggs. Pour in the egg-cheese mixture and quickly toss with tongs to coat pasta. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until a silky sauce forms.
  • Serve: Divide into bowls. Top with extra Pecorino Romano and black pepper. Serve immediately.