Orzo Carbonara
Indulge in the luxurious simplicity of Orzo Carbonara, a creamy, comforting dish that reimagines the classic Italian carbonara with petite, tender orzo pasta. This recipe combines crispy pancetta, velvety egg yolks, and nutty Parmesan cheese to create an irresistibly rich sauce that perfectly clings to the orzo. A hint of garlic and freshly cracked black pepper elevate the dish with bold, aromatic flavors, while a sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or an elegant meal, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for pasta lovers. Serve it piping hot with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a satisfying culinary experience!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 grams Orzo pasta
- 150 grams Pancetta (diced)
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 100 grams Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly cracked)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Parsley (chopped, optional garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, and set the orzo aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and diced pancetta. Cook until the pancetta becomes crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the pancetta and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. The mixture should be creamy and smooth.
Return the drained orzo to the pot or a large mixing bowl while it’s still hot. Quickly pour the egg yolk mixture over the hot pasta, stirring vigorously to coat the orzo. The heat from the pasta will cook the egg yolks and create a creamy sauce.
Stir in the crispy pancetta and garlic mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust with salt, if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2388 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 108.3 g | 139% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.7 g | 214% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 905 mg | 302% | |
| Sodium | 4878 mg | 212% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 235.0 g | 85% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.9 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.9 g | ||
| Protein | 124.5 g | 249% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.8 mcg | 14% | |
| Calcium | 1265 mg | 97% | |
| Iron | 14.7 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 726 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
