How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

Can I make this ahead?

The sauce can be prepared ahead, but it's ideal to combine with pasta right before serving.

What can I substitute for speck?

You can use pancetta or a thick-cut bacon as a suitable replacement.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, you can omit speck and add sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

How do I reheat this dish?

Gently reheat using a double boiler method to prevent the sauce from scrambling.

Smoky Italian Speck Carbonara with Pecorino Romano

Name: Smoky Italian Speck Carbonara with Pecorino Romano
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Spaghetti; Salted Water; Eggs; Pecorino Romano; Parmesan Cheese; Black Pepper; Speck; Garlic; Olive Oil

A Classic Roman Dish with a Delicious Twist

Dive into this creamy carbonara with a unique smoky kick, blending traditional Roman flavors with speck — a succulent Italian cured meat.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Pasta

Spaghetti

400g (or your choice of pasta)

Salted Water

For boiling

For the Carbonara Sauce

Eggs

3 large

Pecorino Romano

40g, finely grated

Parmesan Cheese

40g, finely grated

Black Pepper

Freshly ground, to taste

For the Smoky Speck

Speck

150g, finely sliced into strips

Garlic

2 cloves, peeled and left whole

Olive Oil

1 tablespoon

Preparation

Preparing the Sauce

Mix Eggs and Cheese

In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan.

Season with Pepper

Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Set Aside

Set aside the egg and cheese mixture.

Cooking the Speck

Heat Oil and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Cook Garlic

Add the garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, then remove them.

Crisp the Speck

Add the speck strips and cook until they become crispy.

Do not let the eggs curdle when adding them to the pasta. Turn off the heat before combining the pasta with the egg mixture for a creamier texture.

Cooking Process

Boil the Pasta

Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente, as per package instructions.

Combine with Sauce

Immediately toss the hot, drained pasta with the egg and cheese mixture.

Add the Speck

Mix the crispy speck into the pasta, allowing the flavors to meld.

Plating & Serving