Name: Amazing 20-Min Sausage Carbonara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pappardelle pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 4 large eggs; 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Freshly ground black pepper

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Sausage carbonara has become my ultimate weeknight obsession! I love how quickly it comes together, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. The aroma of sizzling Italian sausage filling my kitchen always makes my family gather around. This easy sausage carbonara is proof that you don’t need hours to create a restaurant-quality meal. I first discovered how amazing a homemade sausage carbonara could be when I was looking for a comforting dish that was also quick, and it’s been a staple ever since. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Carbonara

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons! It’s a culinary hug in a bowl.

The flavor is absolutely incredible – rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.
It’s a truly quick meal, ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
This dish is surprisingly budget-friendly, using common ingredients that deliver big taste.
It’s a fantastic family-friendly option that even picky eaters will devour.
Enjoy a wonderfully creamy sausage carbonara without all the fuss.
The balance of savory sausage and cheesy pasta makes for an unforgettable creamy sausage carbonara experience.
It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian-inspired pasta dish.

Ingredients for Authentic Sausage Carbonara

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly authentic Italian sausage carbonara. The quality of your Italian sausage really shines through here, so pick a good one you love!

1 pound pappardelle pasta – its wide ribbons hold the sauce beautifully
1 tablespoon olive oil – just enough to get the sausage started
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed – this is the heart of our dish, providing savory depth
4 large eggs – the magic binders for our creamy sauce
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese – for that essential salty, sharp Italian flavor
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds another layer of cheesy goodness
Freshly ground black pepper – crucial for that signature carbonara bite

How to Make Easy Sausage Carbonara

Whipping up this delicious sausage carbonara is surprisingly simple, even on a busy weeknight. You’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table in about 20 minutes!

Step 1: Get your pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound pappardelle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before you drain it, be sure to scoop out and reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Step 2: While the pasta is bubbling away, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed. Cook, using a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces, until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked through. The aroma will be amazing!

Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until they’re smoothly combined. Season this mixture generously with freshly ground black pepper. This is the base of your creamy sausage carbonara sauce.
Step 4: Once the pasta is drained (remember to save that water!), add it directly to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Give everything a good toss to combine the flavors and coat the strands of sausage carbonara pasta.
Step 5: Now for the crucial step: remove the skillet from the heat. This is important to prevent your eggs from scrambling! Gradually pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta and sausage. Toss continuously and vigorously. The residual heat from the pasta and sausage will gently cook the eggs, creating a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of sausage carbonara pasta. If it seems a little too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your perfect creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve your incredible homemade sausage carbonara immediately. Garnish with extra grated cheese and a final grind of black pepper for that authentic touch. Enjoy every bite!

Sausage Carbonara Tips for Success

Achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor in your sausage carbonara is all about a few key techniques. Follow these tips, and you’ll master this dish in no time!

Always reserve pasta water; it’s essential for emulsifying the sauce and achieving that signature creamy consistency.
Remove the pan from the heat before adding the egg and cheese mixture to prevent scrambled eggs.
Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the hot pan.

What’s the secret to perfect sausage carbonara?

The real secret to a perfect sausage carbonara sauce is the emulsification created by tempering the eggs with hot pasta water and the residual heat of the pan. This creates a silky, creamy coating without any cream. For more on pasta-making techniques, check out Food Network’s guide to cooking pasta.

Can I make sausage carbonara ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead. Cook the sausage and have your egg/cheese mixture ready. Cook the pasta and combine just before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sausage carbonara?

The biggest pitfall is scrambling the eggs. Always remove the pan from the heat before adding the egg mixture. Also, ensure you use enough cheese and pepper for that authentic carbonara taste. Learning about common cooking mistakes can help prevent them.

Best Ways to Serve Sausage Carbonara

This flavorful sausage carbonara is a star on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions. For a truly authentic Italian experience, serve it piping hot, allowing the creamy sauce to envelop every strand of pasta.

I love to serve this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. If you’re looking to add a bit more heat, consider a spicy sausage carbonara variation; it’s fantastic with a side of crusty garlic bread to sop up any extra sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, also complements the savory flavors perfectly. For more side dish ideas, explore our appetizers.

Nutrition Facts for Sausage Carbonara

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delicious sausage carbonara. It’s a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor!

Calories: 750
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 25g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Sausage Carbonara

Even though this sausage carbonara is best enjoyed immediately, sometimes life happens, and you need to store leftovers. Don’t worry, you can still enjoy this delicious dish later! Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and maintain the best texture. You can store your sausage carbonara in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a quick sausage carbonara reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if it seems dry. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Carbonara

What is sausage carbonara?

Sausage carbonara is a delicious variation of the classic Italian pasta dish, carbonara. Instead of the traditional guanciale or pancetta, it features savory Italian sausage, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a slightly different texture to the creamy egg and cheese sauce.

Pancetta vs sausage carbonara: Which is better?

It really comes down to personal preference! Traditionalists often prefer the cured pork flavor of pancetta or guanciale for an authentic sausage carbonara. However, many find that the robust taste of Italian sausage makes for an incredibly satisfying and flavorful dish, offering a different but equally delicious experience.

Can I make this sausage carbonara vegan?

While this specific recipe relies on Italian sausage and eggs, you can absolutely create a vegan version! You would substitute the sausage with plant-based Italian-style crumbles and replace the eggs and cheese with a cashew-based or silken tofu sauce seasoned with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For other vegan options, check out our vegan berry crisp.

How do I make my sausage carbonara sauce extra creamy?

The key to a super creamy sausage carbonara sauce is using the reserved pasta water. The starch in the water helps to emulsify the egg and cheese mixture, creating a luscious, silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Don’t skip this step!

Variations of Sausage Carbonara You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll love exploring different takes on this fantastic dish. These variations offer exciting new flavors and cater to various preferences, ensuring your sausage and egg carbonara adventures are endless!

Spicy Kick: Swap regular Italian sausage for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a fiery sausage carbonara.
Mushroom Medley: Sauté your favorite mushrooms (like cremini or shiitake) along with the sausage for an earthy, umami-rich twist.
Veggie Boost: Stir in some wilted spinach or peas at the end with the pasta and sausage for added color and nutrients.
Lighter Option: While not traditional, you can experiment with turkey sausage for a slightly leaner version, though it will alter the flavor profile of your sausage carbonara.

For more delicious dinner ideas, explore our dinner recipes. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you might enjoy our desserts or perhaps some pumpkin cobbler.