Microwave Pasta Carbonara
This Microwave Pasta Carbonara is perfect for those times when you're craving comfort food but short on time. This recipe brings you the classic flavours of an Italian carbonara: creamy sauce, crispy pancetta, and perfectly cooked pasta, all made conveniently in your microwave. It's quick, easy, and surprisingly delicious.
Servings: 0
Ingredients
- 1 cup of small pasta (penne, macaroni, or similar)
- 1 cup of water
- salt to taste
- 4 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- black pepper to taste
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine pasta, water, and a pinch of salt.
- Microwave the pasta on high for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Make sure to stir every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. Be aware that cooking times may vary depending on your microwave and the type of pasta used.
- While the pasta is cooking, place the pancetta or bacon in a separate microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of black pepper to create the sauce.
- Once the pasta is done, carefully remove it from the microwave (the bowl will be hot). Drain the pasta, reserving a tablespoon of the pasta water.
- Quickly stir the hot pasta and the reserved pasta water into the egg and cheese mixture. The heat of the pasta will cook the egg slightly and create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon and stir again.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- This recipe serves 1. If cooking for more, adjust the ingredients proportionately, but cook pasta in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Remember to stir the pasta frequently while microwaving to prevent it from sticking together.
- Be very careful when removing dishes from the microwave as they will be very hot.
- The key to a creamy carbonara is the addition of the hot pasta to the egg and cheese mixture. This heats the egg just enough to create a rich, creamy sauce without scrambling it.
- Remember to reserve some of the pasta water. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and gives it a silky texture.
- Feel free to add more cheese or black pepper on top before serving, according to your preference.