Creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying, carbonara is a weeknight superstar. With its humble beginnings as a simple Italian dish made with eggs, pasta, and cheese, it’s no wonder why this beloved recipe has been reinvented in countless ways to suit every taste and dietary preference. In this article, we’ll be exploring the creamiest, most decadent carbonara recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From classic takes on the original recipe to innovative twists featuring everything from garlic and mushrooms to peas and roasted cauliflower, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering carbonara recipes to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for a new go-to dinner idea, these creamy carbonaras are sure to impress.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this timeless pasta dish, featuring pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the pancetta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Carbonara with Mushrooms
A rich and creamy pasta dish infused with the savory flavors of garlic, mushrooms, and bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, and cooked pancetta or bacon. Combine well.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until coated in creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy One-Pot Carbonara with Peas
Easy One-Pot Carbonara with Peas: A creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup frozen peas
– 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.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add butter to the boiling pasta, stirring constantly to melt.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the egg mixture. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes or until the eggs start to set.
5. Stir in frozen peas and cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoky Carbonara with Crispy Bacon
This rich and creamy pasta dish gets a smoky twist from the addition of bacon and chipotle peppers. The combination of crispy bacon, savory sauce, and tender spaghetti makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely 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 large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and crispy bacon.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest
This Italian-inspired pasta dish gets a bright and zesty twist with the addition of fresh herbs and lemon zest. The creamy sauce is still rich and satisfying, but now elevated by the subtle flavors of parsley, basil, and citrus.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 2 tsp lemon zest
– 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 large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add cooked pancetta or bacon to the pasta and toss everything together.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Carbonara with Roasted Cauliflower
This creamy pasta dish gets a nutritious twist by substituting bacon with roasted cauliflower and using plant-based milk instead of eggs. The result is a rich and satisfying vegetarian take on the classic Italian recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine plant-based milk, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, roasted cauliflower, and the creamy sauce in a large bowl. Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carbonara-Stuffed Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this clever combination of rich carbonara and savory garlic bread. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a decadent treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (such as pancetta or Italian-style)
– 1/2 cup carbonara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and bacon.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Spoon carbonara sauce over the garlic butter mixture, making sure each slice is well-coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carbonara Pizza with a Runny Egg
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy, rich, and indulgent Carbonara Pizza topped with a perfectly runny egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 6 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread olive oil over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Arrange cooked spaghetti on top of pizza dough in an even layer.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the spaghetti.
7. Create 2-3 wells for eggs by gently pressing with fingers or a spoon.
8. Crack 1 egg into each well, making sure to keep whites separate from yolks.
9. Bake pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and eggs are cooked but still runny.
10. Remove from oven, season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara Pasta Bake with Three Cheeses
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying Carbonara Pasta Bake, featuring a velvety three-cheese sauce and tender spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Carbonara Risotto with Parmesan Crisps
Transform a classic Italian dish into a rich and creamy risotto, paired with crunchy Parmesan crisps.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Parmesan crisps (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add eggs and cook, stirring constantly, until scrambled. Remove from heat.
3. Stir cooked rice into the egg mixture, then gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 18-20 minutes or until creamy consistency achieved.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve risotto hot, topped with chopped parsley (if using) and Parmesan crisps.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Carbonara Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this rich and satisfying twist, combining the classic comfort of carbonara with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar
– 1 cup grated Parmesan
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine butter, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and whisk until thickened.
5. Add Parmesan and cheddar; stir until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, eggs, and parsley into the cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Carbonara Frittata with Crispy Prosciutto
This Italian-inspired breakfast or brunch dish combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the crispy texture of prosciutto, all wrapped up in a fluffy egg frittata. A perfect way to start your day!
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced and crisped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat butter in a 9-inch (23cm) non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Arrange crisped prosciutto slices on top of the eggs, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are almost set and the prosciutto is crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Slice into wedges and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Carbonara Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting dish, where tender gnocchi meet a velvety carbonara sauce and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) potato gnocchi
– 4 oz (115g) pancetta or bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add sliced onions to the same skillet and caramelize for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Combine cooked pancetta and caramelized onions with the gnocchi mixture. Toss gently.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carbonara Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, these stuffed mushrooms bring together the creamy richness of carbonara with the earthy flavor of portobellos. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and prepare the portobello mushrooms by removing stems and gills.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; set aside.
4. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with cooked spaghetti, then top with Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Carbonara Arancini with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your snack game with these crispy rice balls filled with creamy carbonara goodness, topped with a spicy kick from the mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Arborio rice (cooled)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup carbonara filling (see below)
– Spicy mayo ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine cooled Arborio rice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
4. Place the arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the arancini and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While the arancini are baking, prepare the spicy mayo by mixing together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice.
8. Once the arancini are done, let them cool slightly before serving with a dollop of spicy mayo on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara Lasagna Rolls with Béchamel
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative twist on classic lasagna. By wrapping lasagna noodles around a rich carbonara filling and topping it with a creamy béchamel sauce, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta until crispy. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and flour. Add cooked spaghetti and stir until well combined.
4. Roll out lasagna noodles and spread a thin layer of carbonara filling on each noodle. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Top with béchamel sauce (see below) and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Carbonara Deviled Eggs with Crispy Pancetta
Take the classic deviled egg to new heights by incorporating the rich flavors of carbonara and crispy pancetta. These bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of pancetta, crispy fried until golden brown
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
4. Top each deviled egg with a piece of crispy pancetta and garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Carbonara Waffles with Maple Drizzle
Carbonara Waffles with Maple Drizzle: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
These crispy and fluffy waffles combine the rich flavors of carbonara with the sweetness of maple syrup, making for a unique breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Maple syrup, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the center of the waffle iron and spread evenly to edges.
4. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
5. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing waffle iron with cooking spray as needed.
6. Drizzle maple syrup over warm waffles and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a creamy twist on a classic Italian dish! This collection of 18 Carbonara recipes offers something for every taste and occasion. From comforting weeknight meals to creative brunch ideas, these recipes feature everything from pancetta to mushrooms, peas to prosciutto. Discover how to make traditional Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta or try one of the many variations, such as adding fresh herbs and lemon zest or using roasted cauliflower instead of bacon. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for new ideas, these creamy Carbonara recipes are sure to satisfy.
