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These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

May 13, 2025

9 Ingredients
MEDIUM

This Creamy Carbonara is the ultimate indulgent take on a Roman classic. Rich egg yolks, sharp Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan come together with crispy pancetta and reserved pasta water to create a silky, creamy sauce. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and topped with even more cheese and black pepper, this version nails the creamy texture without adding any actual cream. Quick to make, bold in flavor, and irresistibly cheesy—this carbonara is a must-try.

Creamy Carbonara
Creamy Carbonara
Creamy Carbonara
Creamy Carbonara cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4

Creamy Carbonara

By
These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

Ingredients

plates
Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
2
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In a bowl, combine egg yolks, whole egg, Pecorino, and Parmesan. Mix vigorously to form a smooth paste.
3
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In a cold pan, add diced guanciale or pancetta. Turn heat to medium and cook until crispy and golden. Remove a few spoonfuls of rendered fat and set aside the meat.
4
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Add two spoonfuls of rendered fat and a generous amount of black pepper to the egg/cheese mixture. Stir to combine and loosen with a small splash of pasta water.
5
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Turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool slightly. Add drained spaghetti and egg mixture to the pan.
6
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Quickly toss everything together, adding more pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
7
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Fold in the cooked pancetta or guanciale, add more cheese and pasta water if needed, and stir until fully incorporated.
8
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Serve immediately topped with additional black pepper and cheese.
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My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Egg Temping Technique 🥚
    Slowly whisk hot pasta water into egg yolks to gradually raise their temperature and prevent scrambling, creating a silky smooth sauce.
  • Guanciale Crisp Mastery 🥓
    Render guanciale or pancetta slowly over medium-low heat to achieve maximum crispiness and extract the maximum flavor without burning.
  • Cheese Grating Pro Tip 🧀
    Always use freshly grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan for superior melting and more intense flavor compared to pre-grated alternatives.
  • Pasta Water Magic 💧
    Reserve at least 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining - it's the secret to creating a perfectly emulsified, creamy carbonara sauce.
  • No-Cream Creaminess Hack 🥄
    Toss pasta off direct heat and work quickly when mixing eggs and cheese to create a luxurious, cream-like texture without adding actual cream.

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

These Carbs Don't Count

Verified

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)

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