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Plate of authentic Fettuccine Carbonara with crispy guanciale, creamy egg sauce, and fresh parsley garnish

Fettuccine Carbonara: The Ultimate Guide to a Classic Italian Dish


Description

A classic Roman pasta dish made with just a handful of ingredients—guanciale, eggs, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper—creating a rich, creamy sauce without the use of cream. This dish is simple, yet mastering its technique will elevate your pasta game.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz fettuccine (or spaghetti, rigatoni)
  • 4 oz guanciale, diced (pancetta can be substituted)
  • 2 whole eggs + 2 egg yolks, room temperature
  • 1 cup Pecorino Romano, freshly grated (Parmesan can be used, but Pecorino is preferred)
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water (for emulsifying the sauce)

Instructions

  • Cook the Guanciale:

    • In a dry pan over medium heat, cook the diced guanciale until crispy (about 4-5 minutes).
    • Remove from heat and set aside, keeping the rendered fat in the pan.
  • Boil the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
    • Cook fettuccine until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
    • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Prepare the Egg Mixture:

    • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, yolks, grated Pecorino Romano, and black pepper.
    • Add 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water while whisking to temper the eggs.
  • Combine the Ingredients:

    • Add drained pasta to the pan with guanciale and toss to coat in the rendered fat.
    • Remove pan from heat completely before adding the egg mixture.
    • Quickly toss the pasta while gradually adding reserved pasta water, until the sauce reaches a silky, creamy consistency.
  • Final Adjustments:

    • Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to ensure a smooth sauce.
    • If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce to the perfect texture.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning, adding extra black pepper as desired.
  • Serve Immediately:

    • Carbonara thickens as it cools, so serve fresh!
    • Garnish with additional grated Pecorino Romano and black pepper.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Servings: 2-3
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Protein: 25g