Pasta Carbonara
AI-generated image
Italian

Pasta Carbonara

A classic Roman pasta with crisp pancetta, glossy pecorino sauce, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. The sauce comes together from the pasta's heat rather than cream, creating a silky coating without heaviness.

30 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt, then cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to the package timing, stirring during the first minute to prevent sticking.
2
While the pasta cooks, place the pancetta in a large cold skillet. Set over medium heat and cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the pieces are deeply golden and crisp.
3
Whisk the pasteurized eggs, finely grated Pecorino Romano, and black pepper in a bowl until smooth and thick. Set the bowl near the stove.
4
Lift the spaghetti from the pot into the skillet with the pancetta, taking care to carry some pasta water with it. Toss over low heat for 30 seconds, then remove the skillet from the heat.
5
Add the egg-and-cheese mixture to the hot pasta and toss continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. Add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce is glossy and coats every strand; do not return the skillet to direct heat.
Glossy carbonara sauce coating spaghetti with crisp pancetta AI-generated image
6
Twist the carbonara into warmed bowls and serve immediately with extra Pecorino Romano and black pepper. The finished sauce should be silky, not liquid, and the pasta should still be hot.
Bowl of classic Pasta Carbonara with Pecorino and black pepper AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Starchy pasta water, beaten eggs, and finely grated cheese form a stable emulsion when tossed with hot pasta off the heat. Rendered pancetta adds savory depth while black pepper provides aromatic contrast.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The sauce will firm as it chills.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, tossing constantly until just warm. Avoid high heat, which can scramble the sauce.

Nutrition / serving

625kcal
29.70 gprotein
75.58 gcarbs
20.75 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 17 Aug 2026 · updated 17 Aug 2026