Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cooking Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Courses: Dinner, Lunch
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 80  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

A rich and creamy Spaghetti Carbonara made without pork! This version uses crispy beef bacon, freshly grated Parmesan, and a silky egg-based sauce for an indulgent yet easy Italian pasta dish. Perfect for those avoiding pork while still craving authentic flavors.

Ingredients
    For the Pasta:
  • 350 g spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
  • For the Carbonara Sauce:
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 large whole egg
  • 100 g Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • For the Beef Bacon:
  • 150 g beef bacon (cut into small strips or cubes)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
    Boil the Pasta
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tbsp salt. Cook the spaghetti 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Prepare the Sauce
  3. 2
    In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1 whole egg, and grated Parmesan until smooth. Add freshly ground black pepper and mix well. Set aside at room temperature.
  4. Cook the Beef Bacon
  5. 3
    In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the beef bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
  6. Combine Everything
  7. 4
    Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef bacon (off the heat). Toss quickly, then gradually add ½ cup of reserved pasta water to slightly cool the pasta. Slowly pour in the egg mixture, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more pasta water if needed.
  8. Serve & Garnish
  9. 5
    Divide the pasta among serving plates. Top with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and more crispy beef bacon. Serve immediately!
Note

Beef bacon crisps up faster than pancetta, so watch closely while cooking.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

For a smoky flavor, use smoked beef bacon.

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day (best eaten fresh).

Keywords: Pork-free, Italian, Quick, Easy, Comfort Food
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/spaghetti-carbonara-with-crispy-beef-bacon/