Are you craving a delicious, creamy pasta dish but short on time? Look no further! This easy one-pot spaghetti carbonara recipe is perfect for you. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

Why One-Pot Spaghetti Carbonara?

One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy people. They minimize the number of dishes to wash and streamline the cooking process, making it easier to whip up a tasty meal. This one-pot spaghetti carbonara is no exception. It’s quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy pasta dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 4 oz (115g) pancetta or bacon, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather and prepare all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

• Dice the pancetta or bacon into small pieces.
• Mince the garlic cloves.
• Grate the Parmesan cheese if it’s not pre-grated.

Cooking the Pancetta

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the pancetta from the pot and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Leave the rendered fat in the pot, as it will add flavor to the dish.

Sautéing the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot with the pancetta fat and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Cooking the Spaghetti

Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the pot with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Preparing the Carbonara Sauce

While the spaghetti is cooking, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Combining the Ingredients

Once the spaghetti is cooked to al dente, remove the pot from the heat. Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs without scrambling them. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of hot water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Adding the Pancetta

Return the cooked pancetta to the pot and mix it into the spaghetti and sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your one-pot spaghetti carbonara immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Spaghetti Carbonara

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in the flavor and quality of your dish. Opt for fresh garlic, high-quality Parmesan cheese, and good-quality pancetta or bacon.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

For the best texture, cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and less enjoyable.

Stir Constantly When Adding the Egg Mixture

Stirring constantly while adding the egg and cheese mixture ensures a smooth, creamy sauce. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and keeps the sauce silky.

Adjust the Consistency

If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of hot water or chicken broth to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up.

Variations and Additions

While the classic one-pot spaghetti carbonara is delicious on its own, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Add Vegetables

Incorporate some veggies for added nutrition and flavor. Peas, spinach, or mushrooms work well in this dish. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the liquid.

Use Different Proteins

If you’re not a fan of pancetta or bacon, try using cooked chicken, shrimp, or even smoked salmon for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Experiment with Cheese

While Parmesan is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it might be slightly thicker when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta and heat it gently in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This easy one-pot spaghetti carbonara recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!