Bacon carbonara with parmesan cheese

Bacon Carbonara is a classic Italian dish featuring crispy bacon and a rich, creamy sauce made with eggs and Parmesan cheese. This quick recipe takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.

15 Feb 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tsp salt
8 oz pasta
4 strips bacon
1/2 onion
1 tbsp olive oil
1 dash salt
2 dash black pepper
2 eggs
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
Bacon carbonara with parmesan cheese

Bacon Carbonara with Parmesan Cheese is a classic Italian dish that combines the savory flavor of bacon with the rich creaminess of a Parmesan-infused egg sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and add 1 tbsp of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest.
2. Cook the Bacon:
- While the pasta is cooking, cut the bacon into small pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the bacon fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the Onion:
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add 1 tbsp of olive oil if more fat is needed. Season with a dash of salt and two dashes of black pepper. Remove skillet from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the skillet with bacon and onions to low heat. Add the drained pasta and toss to mix.
- Remove the skillet from heat and quickly pour in the egg mixture, tossing the pasta continuously. This will create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
- Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems too thick.
6. Season to Taste:
- Add the cooked bacon back to the pasta.
- Season with additional black pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- Divide the carbonara among serving plates.
- Garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese.

Bacon Carbonara with Parmesan Cheese is a timeless recipe that brings together simple ingredients to create an incredibly satisfying dish. With a few tips and attentive cooking, you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy your delicious carbonara with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian dining experience.

Bacon carbonara with parmesan cheese FAQ:

What is the best pasta to use for carbonara?

Spaghetti is the traditional choice for carbonara, but you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or bucatini if you prefer. The key is to choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.

How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

Pasta is considered al dente when it is cooked but still slightly firm to the bite. Check the package instructions for timing, but start tasting a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.

Can I make this carbonara without heavy cream?

Yes, you can omit the heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version. Traditional carbonara uses egg and cheese alone for creaminess, so just ensure you whisk the eggs well and mix them quickly with the hot pasta.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to help restore creaminess.

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

You can substitute bacon with pancetta, guanciale, or a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh for a vegetarian option. Be mindful that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Tips:

- Use high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

- Cook the pasta until it's al dente (firm to the bite) so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.

- Reserve some pasta water to help in adjusting the sauce consistency if needed.

- Be careful not to overheat the sauce after adding the eggs to avoid scrambling them.

- Stir the pasta continually while adding the sauce to ensure a creamy, even coating.

- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 720kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 90g
Fiber 4.99g
Sugar 5g
Fat 30g

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