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Classic Bacon Carbonara Pasta (Quick & Easy)

Classic Bacon Carbonara Pasta (Quick & Easy)

This Classic Bacon Carbonara Pasta is a fast, comforting dish with rich, creamy flavor and a smoky bacon twist. Silky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while crispy bacon adds the perfect bite. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 3 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

  • Salt, to taste

  • 1 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.

  2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

  3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Bacon

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy.

  2. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

  3. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet.

  4. If using garlic, add it to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Make the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.

Combine

  1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the bacon fat.

  2. Turn off the heat and immediately pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.

  3. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Serve

  1. Stir the crispy bacon back into the pasta.

  2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Turn off the heat before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.

  • Work quickly when mixing the eggs so the sauce emulsifies properly.

  • Add pasta water gradually—it helps create a silky texture without extra cream.