Pasta lovers, rejoice! There’s nothing quite like a rich and creamy carbonara to satisfy your cravings. This classic Italian dish has been a staple in many cuisines for decades, and its popularity shows no signs of fading. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy pasta carbonara recipes.
From classic takes on the original recipe to creative twists featuring everything from mushrooms and peas to grilled chicken and spinach, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So why settle for just one recipe when you can have a whole arsenal of delicious options at your fingertips? Dive in and discover the endless possibilities of creamy pasta carbonara.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
A rich and creamy Italian pasta dish that combines the simplicity of spaghetti, the savory flavor of pancetta, and the decadence of eggs. This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta (Italian bacon), diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Crack in the eggs and whisk with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the reserved spaghetti to the skillet with the eggs and toss until coated.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and pancetta. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Weeknight Carbonara with Garlic and Parsley
Easy Weeknight Carbonara with Garlic and Parsley
This classic Italian dish gets a boost of flavor from the addition of garlic and parsley, making it a quick and satisfying option for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in eggs and stir constantly until scrambled. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked spaghetti, parsley, and reserved pasta water to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Creamy Carbonara with Mushrooms and Peas
This classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of sautéed mushrooms and sweet peas. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Add peas to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
6. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Carbonara with Crispy Prosciutto and Black Pepper
Elevate this Italian staple by adding crispy prosciutto and a generous sprinkle of black pepper. This rich and creamy dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook chopped prosciutto over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add crispy prosciutto and black pepper to taste. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Carbonara with Smoked Tofu
A creamy, savory twist on the classic Italian dish, this vegetarian carbonara substitutes smoked tofu for bacon and eggs. The result is a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 1/4 cup of vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the smoked tofu, vegetable broth, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti and mushroom mixture in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your classic carbonara game by adding sweet and tangy roasted cherry tomatoes. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the richness of eggs, cream, and parmesan cheese with the natural sweetness of caramelized tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth. Add cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
4. Divide the pasta mixture onto plates. Top with roasted cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Carbonara with Bacon and Peas
A creamy, comforting Italian classic gets a modern twist with the addition of crispy bacon and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Crack in the eggs and whisk until well combined. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked spaghetti.
5. Add the peas and cooked bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until the eggs are cooked and the sauce is creamy.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Truffle Oil and Parmesan
Elevate the humble carbonara to new heights with the rich, earthy flavor of truffle oil and the nutty goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Add the truffle oil and pancetta or bacon to the spaghetti mixture and toss until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Carbonara with Zucchini Noodles
This Italian-inspired dish combines rich eggs, savory bacon, and fresh zucchini noodles to create a gluten-free masterpiece. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchini
– 6 slices of gluten-free bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands.
3. Cook the gluten-free bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add cooked bacon to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
6. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by pan-frying with a little oil for 3-4 minutes. Drain excess water.
7. Combine cooked zucchini noodles with the egg and bacon mixture. Toss gently to coat.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Grilled Chicken and Spinach
Elevate the classic Italian dish by adding grilled chicken and wilted spinach to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Add reserved pasta water in small increments to achieve desired consistency.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, grilled chicken, and egg mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Carbonara with Chili Flakes and Pancetta
Spicy Carbonara with Chili Flakes and Pancetta: A Twist on the Classic Italian Dish
This recipe adds a bold and spicy kick to the traditional carbonara, featuring crispy pancetta and chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired level of heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add chili flakes and toss to combine.
6. Add pancetta bits and chopped parsley (if using) and toss again.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
This classic Italian pasta dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of roasted garlic and fresh herbs. The creamy sauce is infused with a deep, rich flavor that complements the tender spaghetti and savory bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, chives)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast garlic for 30 minutes or until soft and mashed.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add roasted garlic, pancetta, and fresh herbs to the pasta mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carbonara with Shrimp and Lemon Zest
This creamy pasta dish gets a bright twist with the addition of succulent shrimp and a burst of citrusy lemon zest. A perfect combination for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Freshly grated lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
6. Add cooked shrimp and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Add cooked pancetta, sun-dried tomato mixture, and chopped basil to the bowl. Toss everything together until combined.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
A classic Italian dish gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of caramelized onions and thyme. This rich and creamy pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add butter, garlic, and thyme to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
5. Whisk eggs with Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, caramelized onion mixture, and egg mixture in a large bowl.
7. Toss everything together until well combined.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carbonara with Crispy Sage and Brown Butter
This rich and creamy pasta dish gets a boost from the earthy flavor of crispy sage leaves and the nutty goodness of brown butter. The perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 6-8 fresh sage leaves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add butter and let it melt and foam. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
4. Add crispy sage leaves to the browned butter and stir to combine.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
7. Add the pancetta or bacon and brown butter mixture to the pasta and toss until combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Asparagus and Lemon Cream
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of carbonara with the bright flavors of spring, featuring asparagus and a tangy lemon cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add cooked asparagus to the skillet with butter and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and asparagus in the skillet. Pour in lemon cream sauce (see below) and toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Lemon Cream Sauce:
1. Whisk together 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 cup heavy cream, and 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Carbonara with Sausage and Roasted Red Peppers
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, this carbonara recipe adds spicy sausage and sweet roasted red peppers for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered. Let cool, then peel off skin.
2. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and stir well.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, roasted red peppers, and sausage in the skillet. Toss with the egg mixture until coated.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until eggs are set.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a creamy pasta carbonara love fest! This collection of 18 recipes offers something for every occasion, from classic comfort food to vegetarian and gluten-free options. Discover new twists on the traditional Italian dish with ingredients like mushrooms, peas, prosciutto, and truffle oil. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party recipe, this roundup has got you covered.
