Cheater Carbonara

Cheater Carbonara is a modern twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, carbonara. This easy and quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The traditional carbonara is made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper, but Cheater Carbonara simplifies the process by using everyday pantry staples to create a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Cheater Carbonara
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Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

30 mins

Servings:

4

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) package linguine pasta
1 cup frozen peas
5 slices bacon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup milk
½ (8 ounce) package cream cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook linguine at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes, adding peas in the last minute of cooking. Drain and keep warm in a bowl.

Step 2

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet.

Step 3

Add garlic to the skillet; saute for 1 minute. Reduce heat to low and stir in milk and cream cheese until blended.

Step 4

Crumble bacon and add to the linguine along with sauce and Parmesan cheese; stir to coat.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

443

Calories

19g

Fat

50g

Carbs

20g

Protein

Complement

This dish is a favorite among home cooks for its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying and indulgent pasta dish in no time. The creamy sauce is made by combining eggs, cheese, and a bit of pasta water to create a luscious coating for the spaghetti. The addition of crispy bacon or pancetta adds a savory and salty element, while a generous sprinkle of black pepper gives it a subtle kick. Whether you're a carbonara purist or just looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, Cheater Carbonara is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.