Ah, carbonara – the classic Italian dish that never fails to satisfy. This rich and creamy pasta recipe is a staple in many households, but sometimes we need a little inspiration to take it to the next level. That’s where these 19 creamy pasta carbonara recipes come in! From classic takes on the original recipe to innovative twists with fresh herbs and bold flavors, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these carbonara recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in a deliciously creamy pasta dish tonight!
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that’s quick to make and indulges the senses. This recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the savory goodness of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta (Italian bacon), diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pancetta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Carbonara with Fresh Egg Yolks
A rich and creamy pasta dish that’s elevated by the use of fresh egg yolks, adding a silky texture and deep flavor. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and a pinch of salt until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cooked spaghetti and toss with butter until coated.
4. Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce coats the pasta.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Gradually add egg yolks to the pasta, whisking constantly until a creamy sauce forms.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Carbonara with Crispy Bacon
A rich and creamy pasta dish gets a boost from the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Add cooked bacon and garlic to the bowl and toss until everything is well coated.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Peas and Pancetta
This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of eggs, cream, and cheese with the savory flavors of pancetta and sweet peas. A perfect combination for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and melt. Add peas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve creamy consistency.
7. Combine cooked pancetta and peas with the spaghetti mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Carbonara with Zucchini Noodles
Discover a low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese with the nutritious goodness of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) gluten-free spaghetti
– 1 medium zucchini
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add cooked zucchini noodles and cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture. Toss gently to combine.
6. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and cooked bacon.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the egg is cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Mushrooms and Thyme
A rich and creamy pasta dish infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz guanciale or pancetta, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (about 5 minutes).
3. Add guanciale or pancetta and cook until crispy (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and flour. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring in the hot pasta water, whisking constantly.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom mixture, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Carbonara with Chili Flakes
This creamy pasta dish gets a kick from the addition of chili flakes, adding a spicy twist to the classic Italian recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired level of heat)
– 4 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with egg mixture, ensuring pasta is well coated.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pancetta or bacon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
Elevate the classic Italian dish, Carbonara, by adding sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes and nutritious spinach. This creamy pasta recipe is a twist on the original, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves in olive oil over medium heat until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the reserved pasta water and stir until creamy.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the sun-dried tomato and spinach mixture.
7. Season with black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes for pasta cooking
– 5-7 minutes for sun-dried tomatoes and spinach sautéing
– Total cooking time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Carbonara with Fresh Herbs
Elevate the classic Italian dish with a burst of citrus flavor and freshness from herbs. This recipe combines the richness of bacon, eggs, and cream with the brightness of lemon zest and chopped parsley.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and cook bacon bits into the pasta.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy eggs, and rich garlic butter to create a decadent and satisfying meal. This recipe adds a seafood twist to the classic carbonara, making it perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 oz spaghetti
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add garlic butter and cooked shrimp to the bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Carbonara with Cashew Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of traditional carbonara without the eggs or dairy, thanks to this creamy and indulgent vegan twist.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in a little bit of oil over medium heat until tender. Season with salt to taste.
5. Add the cashew cream sauce to the skillet and stir until heated through.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with mushroom mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Chicken and Rosemary
Elevate your pasta game with this savory twist on the Italian classic, featuring chicken and fragrant rosemary. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped rosemary and cook for 1 minute to release its fragrance.
4. Whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, chicken, and reserved pasta water to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined and creamy.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until eggs are set.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Asparagus and Lemon Zest
This refreshing take on the Italian classic combines the rich flavors of bacon, eggs, and parmesan with the sweetness of asparagus and a burst of citrus from lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or thick-cut bacon
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon zest (from about 1/2 lemon)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add asparagus to the same skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, pancetta or bacon, and reserved pasta water to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Stir in butter and lemon zest. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Truffle Oil and Parmesan
Elevate the classic Italian dish with the earthy flavor of truffle oil and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, parmesan cheese, and truffle oil until smooth.
3. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate the classic Italian dish with the sweet and tangy flavor of roasted cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add eggs and whisk constantly over low heat until scrambled. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and roasted cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carbonara with Burrata and Basil
Elevate the classic Italian dish to new heights by combining it with creamy burrata cheese and fresh basil. This indulgent recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and add it to the pasta mixture.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carbonara with Sausage and Caramelized Onions
Elevate the traditional Italian dish by adding sweet and savory caramelized onions and spicy sausage to create a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add sliced onions to the same skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked spaghetti, sausage mixture, and reserved pasta water to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined and creamy.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Carbonara with Artichokes and White Wine Sauce
Elevate the traditional Italian dish by adding the sweetness of artichokes and the richness of white wine. This recipe combines creamy pasta, tender chicken, and a savory sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a skillet, sauté chicken and garlic until cooked through. Set aside.
3. Add butter to the skillet and whisk in white wine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until reduced by half.
4. Stir in heavy cream and artichoke hearts. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Smoked Salmon and Dill
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful take on traditional Carbonara, featuring smoked salmon and fresh dill. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a small bowl.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with garlic, tossing to combine.
5. Pour egg mixture into the skillet and stir until eggs are scrambled.
6. Stir in flaked smoked salmon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy goodness! This article brings together 19 mouth-watering pasta carbonara recipes for dinner. From classic combinations like pancetta and fresh egg yolks, to creative twists featuring peas, mushrooms, and even vegan cashew cream sauce, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick, bright citrus notes, or rich truffle flavors, these recipes will take your taste buds on a delicious journey. Explore the article now and find your new favorite carbonara dish!
