Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is as delicious as it is simple to make. Here is how you can make the best spaghetti carbonara you’ll ever eat, and it will only take you 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

– 400g of spaghetti

– 150g of pancetta or guanciale, diced

– 2 large eggs

– 1 additional large egg yolk

– 100g of grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

– Freshly ground black pepper

– Salt (for the pasta water)

– Optional: A clove of garlic and a small handful of fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. While it’s cooking, you can prepare the other ingredients.
2. In a large pan over medium heat, cook the pancetta or guanciale until it’s brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. If you choose to use garlic, add the clove (peeled and slightly crushed) to the pan at this time for additional flavoring; just remember to remove it before combining with other ingredients.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and grated cheese until well combined. Grind a generous amount of pepper into the mixture—this will give your carbonara its signature flavor.
4. Once the pasta is al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Remove the garlic from your meat pan if used.
5. Quickly add the drained pasta to the pan with pancetta or guanciale over low heat. Toss everything together quickly to coat the spaghetti in all those tasty juices.
6. Remove the pan from heat and add your egg and cheese mixture while tossing continuously. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs forming a silky sauce that clings to every strand. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency—it should be creamy and luscious!
7. Serve immediately with additional grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper on top. For an authentic touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top.
8. Your delectable spaghetti carbonara is ready to enjoy! Remember not to let this dish sit for too long after cooking—the quality deteriorates quickly as it cools down.

Buon appetito! With these steps, you’re sure to create a delightful spaghetti carbonara that rivals those in any Italian trattoria—all in under half an hour!