Ingredients for This How to Make 25-Ingredient Meatball Carbonara
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Carbonara Sauce
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Pasta and Assembly
- 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup pancetta or bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix the Ingredients: Combine ground beef, pork, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, egg, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
3. Make the Carbonara Sauce
- Whisk the Base: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, heavy cream, garlic, black pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Sauté Pancetta: In the same skillet used for the meatballs, cook the pancetta or bacon until crispy.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let the wine reduce by half.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock and chili flakes, then reduce the heat to low. Slowly add the carbonara mixture, whisking constantly.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky consistency.
- Add Meatballs: Gently fold in the cooked meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with fresh basil, parsley, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, ensuring each serving has an equal amount of meatballs. Finish with an extra grating of Pecorino Romano and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect 25-Ingredient Meatball Carbonara
- Balance the Flavors: The combination of salty pancetta, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Carbonara sauce should never be cooked over high heat, as the eggs can scramble.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, authentic Pecorino Romano, and high-quality pasta for the best results.
- Make It Your Own: Add mushrooms or peas for extra texture, or swap pancetta for guanciale for a traditional twist.
Why This 25-Ingredient Recipe Stands Out
This How to Make 25-Ingredient Meatball Carbonara is more than a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings bold flavors and textures to your plate. goes beyond the classic by combining robust, flavorful meatballs with the rich, velvety carbonara sauce. The careful selection of 25 ingredients ensures depth of flavor and a balance of savory, creamy, and herby notes. It’s an impressive dish for special occasions or a delightful treat to elevate your dinner table.
FAQs About How to Make 25-Ingredient Meatball Carbonara
What makes this recipe unique?
The addition of seasoned meatballs to the classic carbonara recipe creates a heartier, more flavorful dish.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or pancetta with bacon, but the original recipe offers the best flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
While carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
What pairs well with this dish?
A crisp green salad and a glass of dry white wine perfectly complement the rich flavors of this carbonara.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and maintains the dish’s integrity.
