This Creamy Carbonara Pasta recipe takes a beloved classic to new heights with its rich, silky sauce and tender pasta. Infused with flavors of sweet ham, earthy mushrooms, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect dish to serve during the festive season or any special occasion that calls for something extra indulgent.
Luxurious, Rich, and Satisfying
This pasta dish combines simple yet rich ingredients that blend beautifully to create a comforting meal that’s sure to please any palate. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, festive gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 500 grams Pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
- 115 grams Mushrooms
- 370 ml Evaporated Milk
- 1/4 cup Sugar (optional)
- 100 grams Butter
- 1 whole White Onion
- 500 ml All-Purpose Cream
- 165 grams Cheese (grated, your choice)
- 250 grams Sweet Ham (or preferred ham)
- Salt (to taste)
- Ground Pepper (to taste)
- Cooking Oil
- Water
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice mushrooms, dice onion, cube ham, and grate cheese.
- Make Creamy Carbonara Sauce: Sauté onions in oil until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Include ham cubes, and sauté briefly.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Combine evaporated milk and cream in the skillet. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in cheese and butter until creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Season to taste. Serve warm garnished with extra cheese and pepper.
Serving Suggestion
Serve this Creamy Carbonara Pasta hot from the stove, garnished with extra grated cheese and a twist of freshly ground black pepper. Complement this rich dish with a crisp, green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables to balance the creaminess. A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon would also enhance the dining experience.
Dietary Information for Creamy Carbonara Pasta
This Creamy Carbonara Pasta, with its rich ingredients and indulgent profile, offers a variety of nutritional elements along with considerations for those watching their diet:
- High in Calories: Due to the use of cream, cheese, butter, and ham, this dish is high in calories. It is suitable for those looking for energy-dense meals but may be considered for occasional indulgence if you’re managing calorie intake.
- Carbohydrates: Pasta, being the main ingredient, is a significant source of carbohydrates, providing energy. This makes the dish a good option for those needing a quick energy boost or involved in energy-demanding activities.
- Protein: Cheese and ham contribute to the protein content of this meal, essential for muscle repair and growth. Eggs in the pasta also add to the protein levels, making this a fulfilling option that can help in satiety and muscle maintenance.
- Fat: This recipe is high in fats, primarily from butter, cheese, and cream. While these ingredients help in flavor and texture, they also increase the saturated fat content, which should be consumed in moderation.
- Dairy Content: With ingredients like cheese, butter, and cream, this dish is rich in dairy. This provides calcium for bone health but could be a concern for those with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities.
- Gluten: Traditional pasta is made from wheat, which contains gluten. Therefore, this dish is not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, gluten-free pasta can be substituted to cater to these dietary restrictions.
- Vegetables: The inclusion of mushrooms and onions adds some fiber and micronutrients but in relatively small amounts. Increasing the variety or amount of vegetables could enhance the dish’s nutritional profile.
- Sodium: Both cheese and ham can be high in sodium, contributing to the overall salt content of the dish. Those monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management might need to consider this.
- Added Sugars: The optional addition of sugar can increase the carbohydrate content and should be used sparingly, especially for those monitoring blood sugar levels.
Cooking Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to keep texture after mixing with the sauce.
- Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer, but keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Low Heat for Dairy: Cook dairy ingredients on low heat to avoid curdling.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh mushrooms and quality cheese for better flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: It’s a satisfying dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal.
- Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for both casual and formal settings.
- Rich and Creamy: The texture and depth of flavor are incredibly indulgent.
- Family Favorite: Loved by people of all ages, from kids to adults.
- Easy to Make: Simple to prepare with guaranteed delicious results.
Conclusion
The Creamy Carbonara Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a memorable dining experience. It embodies the joy of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. Whether it’s a special holiday meal or a weekend treat, this pasta dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the process of making it and even more so, the pleasure of eating it!