Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner routine from ordinary to extraordinary! This Crispy Bacon Sausage Carbonara is not just a pasta dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon, the rich depth of sausage, and the creamy, luxurious texture of a classic carbonara. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy your deepest comfort food cravings in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 lb sausage, crumbled
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of spaghetti, 4 slices of bacon (chopped), 1/2 lb of crumbled sausage, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, add the crumbled sausage to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it is browned and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the bacon and sausage. Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the rendered fat.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: When adding the egg and cheese mixture, work quickly and remove the pan from heat to prevent scrambling. The residual heat will create a silky smooth sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid is your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality bacon and sausage for the most robust flavor.
- Toss Continuously: When combining the egg mixture with hot pasta, keep tossing vigorously to create a creamy, even coating.
- Serve Immediately: Carbonara is best enjoyed right away while the sauce is still warm and creamy. Delay, and you risk a less-than-perfect texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 445kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 135mg
