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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are great choices for this dish. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter twist!

Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best, but you can use frozen shrimp if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw them properly in advance. For a different protein, chicken or even mushrooms are tasty substitutes.

Bacon: Traditional carbonara uses pancetta, but regular bacon works perfectly too! If you’re keeping it vegetarian, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative to add flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: A must for that rich flavor! If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is an excellent alternative. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast sprinkled on top.

How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Carbonara Is Creamy and Not Scrambled Eggs?

The key to a creamy sauce lies in the timing and temperature. When adding the egg mixture to the pasta, it should be off the heat. Here’s how to do it:

• Ensure the pasta is hot but not boiling. This helps the eggs create a sauce instead of cooking into scrambled eggs.
• Toss quickly! As soon as you add the egg mixture, stir vigorously to coat every piece of pasta.
• Add reserved pasta water gradually. This helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it silky and smooth.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful Shrimp Pasta Carbonara that’s creamy, satisfying, and perfect for any meal!

Shrimp Pasta Carbonara

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped

For the Sauce:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon wedge, for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking all together. Perfect for a quick, yet hearty dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook it according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, be sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. This will help with your sauce later!

2. Cook the Bacon:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, but leave that delicious bacon fat in the pan.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp:

Add the olive oil and minced garlic to the leftover bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, throw in the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat.

4. Make the Egg Mixture:

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of salt, and a generous amount of black pepper. This mixture will help create that creamy sauce!

5. Combine Everything:

Now, quickly add that hot drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic. Toss everything together to mix well. Then, remove the skillet from the heat (this is key for avoiding scrambled eggs!). Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Don’t forget to add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve:

Stir in the crispy bacon and sprinkle everything with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge on the side for a bright flavor boost!

Enjoy your creamy, savory delight of Shrimp Pasta Carbonara! It’s sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight, or you can quickly thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.

Can I Make This Dish Without Bacon?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon or mushroom for that umami flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.

What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute! For a dairy-free version, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or vegan Parmesan if you prefer the same texture.