Description
A rich and creamy Pasta Carbonara inspired by The Cheesecake Factory, featuring al dente spaghetti, crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a velvety egg-based sauce for the ultimate comfort dish.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti (or other premium pasta)
6 oz guanciale or pancetta (sub bacon), diced
4 large egg yolks
1 large egg
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook guanciale or pancetta until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pan.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks, whole egg, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing in rendered fat. Remove from heat.
6. Slowly pour egg mixture into the pasta, tossing quickly to prevent scrambling. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy sauce.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Top with crispy guanciale or pancetta, parsley, and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For the most authentic flavor, use guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek).
Temper eggs by removing the skillet from direct heat before adding them to prevent curdling.
Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
This dish pairs beautifully with a Caesar salad and garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American