Spaghetti Carbonara

Tap an ingredient or step to check it off.

1. 1Step 1: Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente. Before draining, reserve a mug of the pasta cooking water.
2. 2Step 2: Heat a frying pan over a medium heat and add the pancetta or bacon. Cook for 6–8 minutes until crispy and golden, releasing its fat. Add the garlic for the final minute if using, then remove and discard it.
3. 3Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese and a generous amount of black pepper until smooth.
4. 4Step 4: Turn the heat off the frying pan. Add the drained pasta to the bacon and toss well. Pour in the egg and cheese mixture and immediately toss or stir, adding a splash of pasta water as needed until a glossy, creamy sauce forms. The heat from the pasta should cook the eggs gently without scrambling.