Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti Carbonara with Beef offers the classic creamy texture of carbonara but adds a unique twist with the use of beef, enhancing its depth of flavor. The combination of eggs, cheese, and beef creates a rich sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti perfectly. It’s a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re a fan of traditional carbonara or looking for something a little different, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
300g ground beef or beef strips
3 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef or beef strips to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
While the beef is cooking, whisk the eggs in a bowl and mix with the grated Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the beef. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the beef and garlic mixture.
Remove the pan from the heat and immediately pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta. Toss quickly to create a creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative that still offers a rich, savory flavor.
Spicy Carbonara: Add red pepper flakes to the beef for a spicy kick.
Cheese Variations: Try using a combination of different cheeses, such as Asiago or Gouda, for a new take on the traditional carbonara.
Creamy Carbonara: Add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture for an extra creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Spaghetti Carbonara with Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef. Chicken breast or thighs would work well, providing a lighter alternative to the beef.

2. Can I make carbonara without eggs?

Traditional carbonara relies on eggs to create its creamy sauce. However, you can make a version using cream or a plant-based egg substitute if desired.

3. Can I make Spaghetti Carbonara with Beef ahead of time?

Carbonara is best served immediately, as the sauce tends to thicken as it sits. If you do make it ahead, be sure to add a little water when reheating to loosen the sauce.

4. What kind of beef is best for this recipe?

Ground beef works best for quick cooking, but you can also use thinly sliced beef steak or flank steak for a more substantial dish.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or linguine if you prefer.

6. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling when making carbonara?

To prevent the eggs from scrambling, remove the pan from the heat before adding the egg and cheese mixture. Toss quickly to incorporate and use the residual heat to create a creamy sauce.

7. Can I make this recipe without cheese?

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether, but the flavor and texture will be different.

8. How do I get the sauce to be creamy and not dry?

The key to a creamy carbonara is adding reserved pasta water slowly to the egg and cheese mixture. This helps create a smooth, silky sauce.

9. Is carbonara typically made with cream?

No, traditional carbonara is made without cream. The creaminess comes from the eggs and cheese, creating a velvety sauce.

10. Can I freeze Spaghetti Carbonara with Beef?

It’s not recommended to freeze carbonara, as the sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture when reheated.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Carbonara with Beef is a rich, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy eggs, savory beef, and salty cheese creates a deliciously indulgent dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this variation of the classic carbonara is sure to be a hit!