Rich, creamy, and full of savory flavor, Spaghetti Carbonara is a Roman classic that’s both simple and indulgent. Chef Ed’s version stays true to tradition—no cream, no shortcuts—just top-quality ingredients and precise technique. It’s the ultimate comfort dish made in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a timeless Italian favorite.

🧂 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

  • 200g (7 oz) spaghetti
  • 100g (3.5 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 whole egg
  • 3/4 cup (60g) finely grated Pecorino Romano (or Parmesan)
  • Fresh cracked black pepper
  • Salt for pasta water

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Cook the Pancetta

While the pasta cooks, place diced pancetta or guanciale in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat but keep the rendered fat in the pan.

3. Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, grated Pecorino Romano, and a generous amount of black pepper. Slowly mix in 2 tablespoons of reserved hot pasta water to temper the eggs and create a creamy base.

4. Combine

Return the drained pasta to the skillet with the pancetta (off the heat). Slowly stir in the egg-cheese mixture, tossing vigorously to coat the pasta without scrambling the eggs. Add small splashes of hot reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and make it silky.

5. Serve

Plate immediately and top with extra cheese and black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy every forkful of creamy, cheesy perfection.

🍷 Chef Ed’s Tips

  • Use guanciale for the most authentic Roman flavor.
  • Never use cream—the sauce should be made silky from eggs, cheese, and pasta water.
  • Toss quickly off heat to avoid scrambling.
  • Fresh cracked pepper adds real depth—don’t skip it!

✨ Final Thoughts

Chef Ed’s Spaghetti Carbonara proves that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can produce extraordinary results. It’s bold, creamy, salty, and deeply satisfying—the kind of meal that brings people together and makes ordinary nights feel special.