Cheap and Tasty Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 6 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter
- 70g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 100g bacon, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be cooked through but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve a little pasta water in case you need it later.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
While the pasta is cooking, crack the eggs into a medium-sized bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk the eggs thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures the eggs blend smoothly with the pasta, creating a creamy texture.
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5 minutes. The bacon not only adds a crunchy texture but also infuses the dish with a savory, smoky flavor. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain any excess fat.
Combine Pasta and Eggs:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it to coat with the melted butter. This step helps to add flavor and prevents the pasta from sticking together.
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly and continuously. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, transforming them into a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs and to ensure an even, creamy texture.
Finish with Bacon and Parmesan:
Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet with the pasta. Stir well to combine, ensuring the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and toss everything together. The cheese melts into the sauce, enhancing its creaminess and adding a rich, cheesy flavor. Allow the pasta to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve:
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta
Egg Mixture: Ensure that the eggs are well-whisked to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce. This prevents any lumps and helps the eggs blend seamlessly with the pasta.
Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture. This will keep the noodles firm and prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed with the egg sauce.
Butter: The butter adds richness to the pasta. Make sure it is melted and evenly distributed for a consistent texture.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides a better melt and flavor compared to pre-grated cheese. If you prefer, you can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.