Grandma Buttons' Kitchen - Pasta Carbonara Recipe

"The best pasta I have had in years. Thank you!" –J.A. Buttons

Grandma Buttons' Pasta Carbonara Recipe

Ingredients:

• 350g (12oz) spaghetti or any pasta of your choice

• 200g (7oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmigiano-Reggiano), plus extra for serving

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Salt (for pasta water)

• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
   

2. Cook Pancetta: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

3. Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the cooked pancetta or guanciale. Toss the pasta with the pancetta to coat.

5. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta and pancetta. Quickly toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Serve: Divide the pasta carbonara among plates. Garnish with extra grated cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Pasta Carbonara THE BUTTONS WAY!