Spaghetti Carbonara

A timeless Italian pasta dish with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious - ready in just 15 minutes.

Prep
5 min
Cook
15 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Italian
  • pasta
  • vegetarian
  • quick
  • budget-friendly
  • classic
  • 15-minute
  • italian
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Ingredients

Servings:
2
  • 8ozSpaghetti
  • 4clovesGarlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/4cupExtra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2tspRed pepper flakes(optional)
  • 2tbspFresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2cupParmigiano-Reggiano, grated(optional)
  • to tasteSalt
  • to tasteBlack pepper

Nutrition

Calories

420

210 per serving

Protein

12g

24% DV

Fat

14g

20% DV

Carbs

58g

19% DV

Macronutrient Breakdown

Protein11%
Fat30%
Carbs55%
Fiber
3g
Sodium
180mg

% Daily Values based on a 2000 calorie diet

Step-by-Step

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.

  2. 2

    While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.

    2m
  3. 3

    Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil. Cook until garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Don't let it burn!

    3m
  4. 4

    Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

  5. 5

    Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine.

    1m
  6. 6

    Add a splash of pasta water if needed to help the oil coat the pasta. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. 7

    Remove from heat, add chopped parsley, and serve immediately with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano if desired.