What Is Carbonara?

This creamy, comforting pasta dish has long been a favorite among home cooks, not just in Italy but across the globe. On Cookpad, thousands of users have shared their own versions of carbonara—from the classic Roman preparation to inspired twists using local ingredients. What brings all of these recipes together? A shared love for cooking and the simple joy of sharing meals.

Origins of Carbonara

Carbonara is believed to have originated in the Lazio region of Italy, home to Rome. It likely evolved from traditional shepherd dishes like cacio e ova—a simple mix of pasta, eggs, and cheese—later enriched with guanciale to become the version we know today.

Defining Features of Authentic Carbonara

True carbonara has just a few ingredients: eggs, pecorino romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. That’s it—no cream, no garlic, no onions. The magic comes from technique: the silky sauce is made by tossing hot pasta with the egg mixture, just enough to create a rich, glossy coating without scrambling.

Traditional Carbonara Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 2)

  • 7 oz spaghetti (about 200g)
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (about 50g)
    • Parmesan can be used if Pecorino isn’t available.
  • 3.5 oz pancetta or guanciale, diced (about 100g)
    • Thick-cut bacon works too, if needed.
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks and grated cheese until smooth.
  3. Cook the Pancetta: In a pan, cook pancetta until crispy.
  4. Combine Off Heat: Add the hot pasta to the pancetta, remove from heat, and mix in the egg-cheese mixture. Stir quickly.
  5. Finish with Pepper: Season generously with freshly ground black pepper.

Chicken Carbonara

Add grilled chicken breast for extra protein and flavor. [More Chicken Carbonara Recipes]

Bacon Chicken Carbonara Recipe by SherryRandall: The Leftover Chronicles
Easy easy easy and so gooood.
CookpadSherryRandall: The Leftover Chronicles
Spinach chicken carbonara Recipe by shreyaas_world
Every other day when I try making something healthy, nutritious and delicious for my family and oh! Yes deal with the leftovers in my tiny kitchen I try remembering my mom’s advise Rise and shine in whatever little ways possible. Presenting a pasta dish which is easy and equally delectable. P.S I tr…
Cookpadshreyaas_world

Shrimp Carbonara

Toss in cooked shrimp for a seafood-inspired twist. [Shrimp Carbonara Recipes]

Shrimp Fettucine With Bacon And Sausage Carbonara Recipe by Wei Jie
Great recipe for Shrimp Fettucine with bacon and sausage carbonara.
CookpadWei Jie

Bacon Carbonara

Use crispy bacon as an alternative to pancetta or guanciale. [Carbonara Bacon Recipes]

Bacon Carbonara Recipe by Chiara Passera
Great recipe for Bacon Carbonara.
CookpadChiara Passera

Frequently Asked Questions About Carbonara (FAQs)

- What are the original Carbonara ingredients?

Eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale, black pepper, and pasta.

- Does Carbonara use cream?

No. Authentic Carbonara is creamy thanks to the emulsion of eggs and cheese with the hot pasta.

- How is Carbonara different from Alfredo?

Alfredo uses cream and butter. Carbonara relies on eggs and cheese for its sauce.

Super Easy and Delicious Alfredo Sauce Recipe by Boca de Fogo
After trying so many versions of Alfredo sauces, I finally got it right. And it’s SO easy!! #mycookbook #worldonaplate #myitalian
CookpadBoca de Fogo
Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe by jenscookingdiary
#myitalian #worldonplate Carbonara is an Italian pasta dish from Rome. The ingredients consist of pancetta / guanciale (or can be replaced with smoked bacon), egg / egg yolk mixed with hard cheese such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano and black pepper. Spaghetti is the most common pasta, but fettuccin…
Cookpadjenscookingdiary

Expert Tips for the Perfect Carbonara

  • Use high-quality Pecorino Romano and guanciale for authentic flavor.
  • Always mix the egg sauce off the heat to avoid scrambling.
  • Cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
  • Add freshly cracked black pepper at the end for the best aroma.

Which Carbonara Will You Try First?

Whether you love the classic or want to try chicken or shrimp versions, Carbonara offers a satisfying and authentic Italian meal. Try it today and bring Italy to your kitchen!

Chicken carbonara penne pasta Recipe by elroy.galbraith
My fiance bought me a new cast iron skillet for Christmas. I was itching to use it and decided on this relatively simple pasta recipe. The skillet is such a versatile and sturdy tool and I plan on taking really great care of it.
Cookpadelroy.galbraith
Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe by Chris Gan
This is an easy dish to whip up quickly for a weeknight dinner. It is flavorful, and also feels just a little bit fancy. You can add more heat by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes, and/or you could sprinkle it with a little Parmesan cheese when you serve it. The original recipe came from th…
CookpadChris Gan

Related with Traditional Italian Carbonara – Authentic Recipes & Tips:

Find all your favorite carbonara recipe on Cookpad!

Authentic Carbonara Recipes with Regional Italian Variations
From Rome to Sicily: discover more than 400 carbonara recipes with local Italian flavor. Real tradition, real pasta, real taste
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