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Lunch
Dinner
Ham Carbonara
TOTAL TIME35 mins
SKILL LEVELBeginner
SERVINGS4 to 6
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About this RecipeThis Ham Carbonara blends savory Smithfield ham, crisp bacon, and a silky Parmesan sauce for a cozy, flavorful take on a timeless favorite. It’s a simple way to bring comfort to the table.
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Ingredients
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12 ounces, chopped Thick Cut Bacon
 
1 Large egg
 
3 Large egg yolks
 
1 cup Grated parmesan cheese
 
1 lb. Spaghetti
 
1 tbsp. Olive oil
 
2 cloves Garlic, minced
 
to taste Salt and pepper
Directions
1.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2.
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the egg, yolks, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Add a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3.
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until just crispy, about 10 minutes. Then add the diced ham and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.
4.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon and ham to a paper-towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
5.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
6.
Add the cooked pasta and ½ cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic-infused bacon fat.
7.
Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, moving the pan back and forth to create a creamy sauce.
8.
Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of pasta water while stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
9.
Return the bacon and ham to the skillet and toss everything together.
10.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with a bowl of grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
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