Pasta Carbonara

I don't remember how I discovered this delicious dish.  I never had it growing up and we've never ordered it in a restaurant.  The first recipe I tried used all of my favorite foods:  butter, bacon, wine, cheese, eggs, spaghetti, and onions.  It's always a little scary cooking something you've never eaten before.. you don't know what it's supposed to look like.. or taste like.  But, it was amazing!!  An instant favorite.

I've since simplified the recipe, drastically.  Here is my super-simple Pasta Carbonara recipe:

Pasta Carbonara

Ingredients:

1/2 pound of bacon
1 box of spaghetti
4 eggs (2 whole, 2 yolks)
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup parmesan cheese

1. Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces.  In a skillet, fry bacon until crispy.  Note:  You can't do it in the microwave or use precooked bacon because you'll need to use the grease from cooking in the skillet.
   
   
   
   
2. Boil spaghetti according to package instructions.
3. Mix 2 whole eggs, 2 egg yolks, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/4 cup of parmesan.  Whisk these ingredients until well mixed.
   
   
4. Drain pasta and return to pot.  Add egg mixture to pot.  Stir immediately and mix well.  Note:  Yes, raw eggs.  The heat from the noodles is enough to cook the eggs and the heat from the pot is some added insurance.
   
   
5. Add bacon and grease to pot.  Stir until well mixed and serve with extra parmesan or toasted bread crumbs on top.
   
   

Voila!  Enjoy!