There’s nothing like a plate of Classic Italian Carbonara with Bacon to transport you straight to the streets of Rome. With its creamy, silky sauce, crisp bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered Carbonara while traveling through Italy, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. What I love most is how such simple ingredients can create a dish that feels luxurious, yet comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ready to master this timeless recipe? Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
Why You'll Love This Classic Italian Carbonara With Bacon
Get ready to fall in love with this quintessential Italian favorite. Not only is Classic Italian Carbonara packed with flavor, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.
1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for hectic evenings when time is tight but you still want a delicious homemade meal.
2. Minimal Ingredients: With only a handful of pantry staples—like pasta, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and bacon—you can create a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss.
3. Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore the creamy texture and rich flavors. It's a dish that brings everyone to the table!
4. Budget-Friendly: Skip the takeout! This recipe uses affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand, saving you money while delivering maximum flavor.
Best of all, Carbonara is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re adding peas, swapping bacon for pancetta, or trying it with gluten-free pasta, this dish adapts beautifully to your needs.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Classic Italian Carbonara lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
1. Pasta: Traditional spaghetti is the go-to for this dish, but feel free to use fettuccine, linguine, or even bucatini for a fun twist. Aim for high-quality dried pasta for the best texture.
2. Bacon: While traditional recipes often call for guanciale, bacon is a widely available and delicious substitute. Its smoky, salty flavor works beautifully in this dish. Cut it into small pieces for even cooking.
3. Eggs: You’ll need whole eggs and an extra yolk to achieve that luscious, velvety sauce. Be sure to use fresh eggs for the best results.
4. Parmesan Cheese: Authentic Carbonara uses Pecorino Romano, but freshly grated Parmesan works just as well. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
5. Black Pepper: Don’t underestimate the power of freshly cracked black pepper. It adds depth and a subtle kick that elevates the dish.
Special Equipment: While no fancy tools are needed, a whisk and tongs will make the process easier. A fine grater for the cheese is also essential.
How To Make This Classic Italian Carbonara With Bacon

Creating Classic Italian Carbonara is easier than you think! Let’s break it down step by step for foolproof results.
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Set aside.
4. Combine the Elements: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bacon fat. Toss well to coat. Remove the skillet from the heat and slowly pour in the egg mixture, tossing constantly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
5. Finish with Bacon and Pepper: Stir in the crispy bacon and season generously with freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.
This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive option for any night of the week.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence with Carbonara!), here’s how to store them properly to enjoy later.
1. Refrigeration: Store your Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware that the sauce may thicken upon cooling.
2. Freezing: While freezing is not ideal for Carbonara due to its egg-based sauce, you can freeze it in a pinch. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
3. Reheating: To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can scramble the eggs.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Carbonara is its adaptability. Here are some fun twists to try:
1. Swap the Bacon: For a more traditional approach, use guanciale or pancetta. Turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives also work well for dietary restrictions.
2. Add Veggies: Stir in some cooked peas, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or a blend of Parmesan and Asiago for a different flavor profile.
5. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!
With its rich flavor and simple preparation, Classic Italian Carbonara with Bacon is destined to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish never fails to impress. So grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll see why it’s an Italian classic loved around the world!
PrintClassic Italian Carbonara With Bacon Recipe
Indulge in this Classic Italian Carbonara with bacon, a traditional recipe featuring al dente pasta, crispy bacon, creamy egg yolks, and grated parmesan. A perfect blend of flavors for an easy, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or preferred pasta)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 4 oz pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, whole egg, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano until creamy. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Add optional garlic to the bacon fat for flavor, then discard garlic if used.
- Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the bacon. Reduce heat to low.
- Quickly pour the egg mixture into the pasta, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, if needed.
- Season with salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use pancetta for a more traditional flavor, or thick-cut bacon as a substitute.
- Avoid high heat when adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
- Serve immediately, as the sauce may thicken when cooled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700
Leave a Reply