How to make Carbonara

Carbonara is a simple pasta that feels deeply comforting when it is done well. With a few good ingredients and the right timing, you get a glossy, creamy sauce without using cream, plus plenty of savory flavor from pancetta and parmesan.

1. 1Cook the spaghetti in well-salted water until al dente.
2. 2Crisp the pancetta in a frying pan until golden.
3. 3Whisk the eggs, yolks, parmesan, and plenty of black pepper together.
4. 4Add the hot pasta to the pancetta, then remove the pan from the heat.
5. 5Stir through the egg mixture, adding a splash of pasta water until glossy and silky.

Tips for the best result

• Take the pan off the heat before adding the eggs so the sauce stays smooth.
• A generous amount of black pepper is part of what makes carbonara taste so good.

Recipe FAQ