The Ultimate Comfort Food Pasta
There’s nothing like a bowl of creamy carbonara to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. This classic pasta dish is elevated with a luscious cream sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken for a hearty, irresistible meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a quick weeknight dinner, this carbonara recipe will impress everyone at the table.
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of traditional Italian carbonara with a creamy twist. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, making it a go-to for pasta lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is perfectly silky and clings to every strand of pasta.
- Hearty Additions: Chicken and bacon take this dish to the next level.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes for a no-fuss dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. - Cook the Chicken and Bacon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce
In the skillet with the bacon drippings, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. - Combine Everything
Remove the skillet from heat. Slowly whisk the egg mixture into the cream sauce, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Add the cooked chicken and bacon back into the skillet. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired consistency. - Serve and Garnish
Plate the creamy carbonara and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips for the Perfect Carbonara
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly add the egg mixture to the sauce off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Pasta Water is Key: The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce for a silky finish.
Why This Recipe Works
This creamy carbonara takes the traditional Italian dish and enhances it with a luxurious sauce and hearty ingredients. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and full of rich flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions, this dish is a guaranteed hit.