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Spaghetti carbonara is a beloved classic that hails from the heart of Italy, specifically the region of Lazio. Renowned for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor, this dish has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. The beauty of spaghetti carbonara lies not only in its comforting taste but also in its simplicity, which is why it has become a staple in both home kitchens and upscale restaurants. However, to truly appreciate the authentic flavors of this traditional recipe, it’s essential to use high-quality, authentic ingredients that bring the dish to life.

Best-Ever Spaghetti Carbonara – Authentic & Creamy!

Discover the ultimate creamy spaghetti carbonara that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. This classic dish features al dente spaghetti coated in a rich emulsion of fresh eggs and savory cheeses, all enhanced by the crispy goodness of guanciale. Perfect for both seasoned chefs and home cooks, our detailed guide walks you through selecting the best ingredients and each step of the cooking process. Impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious recipe that embodies the heart of Italian cuisine.
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Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

150g guanciale (or pancetta), diced

4 large eggs

100g Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated

50g Parmesan cheese, finely grated

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Salt, for pasta water

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

      Prepare the Sauce:

        - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

          Cook the Guanciale:

            - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced guanciale. Cook until it becomes crispy and golden-brown, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it to the skillet during the last minute of cooking, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

              Combine Pasta and Guanciale:

                - Once the pasta is cooked and drained, quickly add it to the skillet with the guanciale (make sure the heat is off or very low to avoid scrambling the eggs). Toss to combine, allowing the heat from the pasta to release the flavorful oil from the guanciale.

                  Add the Sauce:

                    - Remove the skillet from heat. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is reached. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently, creating a rich and luscious sauce.

                      Season and Serve:

                        - Taste and adjust with more black pepper and salt as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy your authentic and creamy spaghetti carbonara!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4