Looking for a delicious and budget-friendly recipe that will satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank? Look no further than our Frugal Gourmet Pasta Carbonara! This classic Italian dish is a comforting and flavorful option for a cozy night in. With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make. Let’s dive in and create a scrumptious meal that your whole family will love.
Title: Frugal Gourmet Pasta Carbonara
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 8 slices of bacon, chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a separate skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set aside.
4. Return the skillet with the bacon drippings to low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and toss to coat evenly with the bacon drippings. Remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Gradually pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, while continuously tossing the spaghetti to coat in the sauce. The heat of the pasta will cook the eggs gently and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too dry, you can gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Once the pasta is well coated and the sauce has thickened, stir in the crispy bacon pieces. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve the Frugal Gourmet Pasta Carbonara hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this comforting and affordable meal with your loved ones!
Frugal Gourmet Pasta Carbonara is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying meal or paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a more substantial dinner. The combination of smoky bacon, creamy egg sauce, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious flavor profile that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, this recipe can be easily customized by adding ingredients like peas, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra bursts of flavor and texture. So, the next time you’re looking for a wallet-friendly and delicious meal idea, give this Frugal Gourmet Pasta Carbonara a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
