Spaghetti alla Carbonara

This classic spaghetti alla carbonara recipe is smooth, creamy, and full of rich Italian flavor. 

What Is Spaghetti alla Carbonara?

Carbonara is a Roman dish made with eggs, hard cheese, and cured pork. Its signature rich and silky sauce comes from beaten eggs tossed with hot pasta. The trick to making carbonara is making sure the pasta is hot enough to cook the eggs, but not so hot that they curdle. 

Spaghetti alla Carbonara Ingredients

These are the simple ingredients you’ll need to make homemade spaghetti alla carbonara recipe: 

• Oil: This traditional Italian recipe starts with olive oil.  
• Guanciale: Buy guanciale (or cured pork cheek) at your local butcher. If you can’t find it, you can substitute unsmoked bacon or pancetta.
• Spaghetti: Use store-bought or homemade spaghetti noodles. If you like, you can substitute bucatini for the spaghetti. 
• Eggs: Three large eggs add richness and flavor. 
• Cheese: Opt for hand-shredded Pecorino Romano cheese. You can substitute Parmesan, if preferred.
• Seasonings: This flavorful spaghetti alla carbonara is simply seasoned with salt and pepper. 

How to Make Spaghetti alla Carbonara

You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below (with photos) — but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make traditional spaghetti alla carbonara: 

1. Cook the pork in olive oil until browned and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
2. Boil the spaghetti in salted water. Drain and return to the pot. Let cool.
3. Whisk the eggs, 1/2 of the cheese, and some pepper in a bowl until smooth.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly, until creamy.
5. Stir in the pork, then top with the remaining cheese and more black pepper.

Notes and tips from the chef: 

• Ask somebody to hold the pot so you can stir pasta quickly while pouring the egg mixture over it.
• Please note the addition of reserved pasta water when using the magazine version of this recipe.

What to Serve With Spaghetti alla Carbonara

In need of serving inspiration for spaghetti alla carbonara? Explore our collection of 16 of the Best Side Dishes to Pair With Your Spaghetti Dinner. Here are few of the mouthwatering recipes you’ll find: 

• Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad
• Roasted Garlic Lemon Broccoli
• Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

How to Store Spaghetti alla Carbonara

Store your leftover spaghetti alla carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove. 

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“One of our family favorites,” says one Allrecipes community member. “Great and simple recipe! I use pancetta from Trader Joe's instead of guanciale.”

“So easy and so yummy,” raves Vicki. “Be sure to save the pasta water.”

“Added sun-dried tomatoes and chili flakes for a kick,” according to Timothy Blake Schritter. “My wife and four kids all agree, this is our favorite pasta.”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams