One-Pot Spaghetti Carbonara – The Ultimate Comfort Food, All in One Pot!

Key Takeaways:

• One-pot cooking for easy cleanup
• Rich, creamy spaghetti carbonara with a blend of cheese, pancetta, and eggs
• Step-by-step instructions for perfect carbonara every time
• Plating ideas to elevate your dinner table
• Wine pairing suggestions to complement the dish
• Tips on handling leftovers to keep the meal fresh
• Measurements for a serving size ideal for two

Have you ever craved the rich, creamy goodness of Spaghetti Carbonara but dreaded the cleanup afterward? This One-Pot Spaghetti Carbonara is the answer! It combines the rich flavors of eggs, cheese, and pancetta in a creamy sauce, all cooked in one pot for minimal mess and maximum flavor. Ready to make this easy and decadent dish for two? Let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, we’ll be cutting down the usual serving size to make it perfect for two people. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 oz spaghetti (approximately half of a standard package)
• 2 oz pancetta (or guanciale for a more traditional twist), diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (and Pecorino Romano, if you like it extra tangy), freshly grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Nonna’s Tip: For the creamiest sauce, make sure to mix the eggs with the grated cheese before adding it to the hot pasta. The heat from the spaghetti will create that luscious sauce!

Cook the Pancetta

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook it until crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. The fat from the pancetta will melt into the oil, creating a deliciously savory base for the sauce.

Nonna’s Tip: If you can’t find pancetta, you can easily substitute with bacon. The smoky flavor adds a nice depth.

Boil the Pasta

While your pancetta is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions, about 9-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.

the Creamy Carbonara Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Once your pasta is drained and added to the pot with pancetta, quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture. Toss the pasta swiftly so the eggs cook in the residual heat, forming a creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

Nonna’s Tip: Toss gently and swiftly! You don’t want scrambled eggs, just a creamy sauce!

and Plate the Dish

Once your pasta is coated in that rich carbonara sauce, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The pancetta brings plenty of salt, so be cautious with the seasoning. If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top before serving.

For plating, twirl the pasta into a nest shape for a visually appealing presentation. Top with a little extra cheese and freshly ground black pepper.

Plating Tip: Pair this dish with a simple side salad, like arugula with lemon and olive oil, to balance the richness.

Suggestions

Set the mood with a rustic Italian-inspired tablescape. Use simple, elegant tableware with white or cream-colored plates to let the dish pop. Add some fresh herbs (rosemary or basil) in small vases and a cozy cloth napkin. A candle or two can create a warm, inviting ambiance for a lovely dinner for two.

Nonna’s Tip: A bottle of red wine nearby would be perfect to complement the creamy, savory carbonara.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Pair your Spaghetti Carbonara with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a crisp, dry white like Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine helps cut through the richness of the carbonara, making each bite even more delightful.

Dealing with Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though I wouldn’t count on it!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of milk or pasta water to bring back the creamy texture.

Nonna’s Tip: Carbonara is best served fresh, but if you must, always reheat gently to avoid overcooking the eggs!

There you have it—one pot, a few simple ingredients, and a mouthwatering, creamy Spaghetti Carbonara that’s perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a special someone, this dish is sure to impress without the hassle. So, grab your pot, cook up this comforting pasta, and enjoy a beautiful meal tonight!

Now that you know how to make the perfect One-Pot Spaghetti Carbonara, why not give it a try tonight? Share your carbonara creations with us on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured! Don’t forget to check out our affiliate links for some must-have kitchen tools to make cooking even easier!