Instructions
- Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings in the skillet, discarding the rest. - Cook the Pasta
While the bacon cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pan.Editor’s Tip: Don’t forget to salt your pasta water!
- Make the Sauce
In the skillet with bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Reduce heat to medium-low, then stir in the half-and-half. - Add Eggs to the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk a bit of the warm sauce into the eggs to temper them. Return the mixture to the skillet, whisking constantly. Cook over low heat for 8-10 minutes or until the sauce reaches 160°C, stirring frequently to prevent the eggs from scrambling.Editor’s Tip: Tempering the eggs helps create a smooth sauce without curdling.
- Combine Ingredients
Stir the grated cheese, salt, pepper, and cooked bacon into the sauce. Toss the sauce with the cooked fettuccine until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with parsley and additional cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Variations
- Herbs: Add fresh oregano, thyme, or basil for extra flavor.
- Peas: Mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of cooked peas for color and sweetness.
- Different Cheeses: Swap Romano for Parmesan, Gruyere, smoked Gouda, or goat cheese.
- Homemade Pasta: Take the dish to the next level by making fresh pasta from scratch.
How to Store Fettuccine Carbonara
Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a skillet with a splash of half-and-half or broth to keep it creamy.
Fettuccine Carbonara Tips
- Is It Safe to Eat Raw Egg?
In traditional recipes, the heat from the pasta cooks the eggs. If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs, which are widely available. - Should You Rinse Pasta After Cooking?
No. The starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling better. Rinsing the noodles would cause the sauce to slide off. - What to Serve with Fettuccine Carbonara
Great side dishes include Caesar salad, garlic roasted broccoli, peas with shallots, and Italian chopped salad. Serve with garlic breadsticks, tomato bruschetta, or rosemary focaccia for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious homemade fettuccine carbonara!
