Name: Creamy Pasta Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 16-ounce package pasta; 8 slices thick cut bacon, sliced into thin strips; 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon); 4 eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/4 – 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives

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Introduction

This Creamy Pasta Carbonara is a quick and satisfying dish that blends crispy bacon, fresh garlic, and a silky egg-based sauce. With a touch of lemon and fresh chives, it offers a bright, comforting flavor perfect for any night of the week.

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti carbonara with long, creamy yellow noodles mixed with small pieces of browned bacon scattered through the pasta. The top is sprinkled with small chopped green chives and a light dusting of black pepper. A fork with a wooden handle and metal prongs rests on the left edge of the plate. In the background, a small white bowl filled with more chopped green chives is visible on a white marbled surface, alongside a blue and white striped cloth under the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 16-ounce package pasta
8 slices thick cut bacon, sliced into thin strips
4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
4 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 – 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives

Instructions

Step 1: Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon strips and sauté until slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then turn off the heat.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Temper the eggs by slowly whisking in the reserved hot pasta water.
Step 4: Add the drained pasta and egg mixture to the skillet with the bacon. Stir well to combine, allowing the eggs to coat the pasta. As it warms, the sauce will begin to thicken.
Step 5: If needed, add more reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh chives and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use pancetta instead of bacon for a more traditional flavor.
Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and depth.
Be sure to temper the eggs carefully to avoid scrambling; add pasta water slowly while whisking.
Try swapping chives with fresh parsley or basil for a different herb note.

Storage

Store leftover carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the eggs from curdling.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds spaghetti pasta with a creamy yellow sauce, mixed with small pieces of browned bacon scattered on top and throughout the noodles. Bright green chopped chives are sprinkled generously across the pasta, adding a fresh contrast. The pasta looks smooth and slightly glossy, with specks of black pepper visible on the surface. A fork with a wooden handle rests on the side of the bowl, partly inserted into the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl of extra chopped chives placed nearby. A blue and white striped cloth is also partially visible under the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the sauce?

Tempering the eggs by slowly whisking in hot pasta water before adding them to the pan helps create a smooth, creamy sauce without scrambling. Stir constantly and keep the heat low once eggs are added.