40 mins
Spaghetti a la Carbonara
Recipe by Graham
If proof was ever needed that pasta need not be uninteresting, Spaghetti a la Carbonara is it! To me, this dish is the monarch of the pastas. In the original Italian recipe, the spaghetti is mixed with bacon, raw egg and parmesan. In some recipes the whole dish is baked with mozzarella cheese. Here, however, we are going to make use of good old Cheddar cheese for a quick, easy and satisfying family meal.
Somerset Pears 
Spaghetti Bolognese Ingredients for Spaghetti a la Carbonara
Currently displaying quantities in US Imperial Measurements
How to Cook Spaghetti a la Carbonara
- Bring a large pan of slightly salted water to the boil, add the oil and then the spaghetti. Cook according to the instructions on the packet (usually about 15-20 minutes in boiling water). You can check to see if the spaghetti is cooked by removing a strand on the end of a fork.
- Meanwhile, grate (shred) the cheese and place half of it in a mixing bowl. With just two of the eggs, separate the yolks from the whites and discard the whites. Add the yolks to the cheese and also add the other two eggs complete. Mix well. Beat the butter well with a fork to make it soft and creamy. Cut the bacon into small strips and fry for a few minutes over a moderate heat. Drain off any fat from the frying pan then add the cream and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir the bacon and cream well and allow to warm (but not to boil).
- When the spaghetti is cooked, drain it in a colander and transfer it to a warm serving plate. Add the beaten butter and, using two forks, lift the spaghetti several times to incorporate the butter. Add the bacon and cream mix and then the egg and cheese mix (The heat of the spaghetti is sufficient to cook the eggs). Toss the spaghetti again and then add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Serve immediately with the remaining cheese in a separate dish to sprinkle on if wished.
GRAHAM'S HOT TIP:
This same meal can be made using Tagliatelli instead of spaghetti, it makes a lighter meal and is just as tasty.
Reviews of Spaghetti a la Carbonara
| December 23 2014 I've tried lots of different recipes for Carbonara and this is one of the easiest I've come across. The taste is excellent (rich, creamy sauce) and the balance between cheese, bacon and pasta is just right. The only change I made was to sprinkle lots of grated Parmesan over the top at the end... because I like Parmesan! Good recipe - thanks, NadiaBernard (1 review) |
What To Eat Tonight
Salads don't have to be plain and boring. Salads can be exciting and filling and simple to prepare. Take a look at some of the ones here.
There are lots of recipes for some foods, but here we offer a selection of recipes that are truly out of the ordinary. You'll be amazed.
Money is always a concern so our selection of recipes at budget prices is worth a visit. You don't have to sacrifice quality for quantity.
Other Pasta Recipes
Chinese Pancakes are the classic accompaniment to Peking Duck and reflect the northern Chinese use of wheat instead of rice.
Cauliflower and Bacon Pasta - just full of great ingredients in one pasta bake? This family-friendly gratin is both comforting and filling.
Tomato, Basil and Almond Pasta celebrates the tastes of Sicily. This delicious vegetarian summer pasta can be served warm or at room temperature.
