You’ll Be Making This On Repeat
Today, we’re keeping it classic with a dish that feels gourmet but couldn’t be easier to whip up: vegetarian carbonara. Using just a few staple ingredients (like spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan, and mushrooms), it turns out shockingly rich, creamy, and satisfying. Now, what truly makes a carbonara dish? It’s all in the eggs! Where regular spaghetti can be made with marinara sauce (or butter and Parmesan for Alfredo), carbonara uses egg yolks to create a creaminess that just isn’t achievable with the other variations. And you won’t miss the bacon one bit! I can confirm this meat-free carbonara recipe still packs plenty of savory flavor and an unbelievably meaty texture, thanks to the sautéed mushrooms. Let’s make pasta!
Here’s What You’ll Need
This vegetarian carbonara uses only 8 ingredients, two of which are seasonings!
Butter: First up, we’ll use 2 tablespoons of butter to sauté the mushrooms. Unsalted is best, as the Parmesan will add enough saltiness. Mushrooms: As for the mushrooms, slice up 3 cups. You can use your favorite type of mushroom here. (White or brown button mushrooms are easiest to find, but shiitake or portobello add loads of flavor!) Garlic: Add some savoriness with 2 cloves of minced garlic. While fresh garlic is best, you can use 1/4 tsp of dried garlic to replace the 2 cloves. Spaghetti: Use 1 lb of (uncooked) spaghetti (bucatini and rigatoni are also types of pasta that work wonderfully, too). Salt: Add 2 tablespoons to the pasta water for maximum flavor. (You won’t actually eat all that sodium—most of it will stay in the water!) Eggs: Next up is the ingredient that makes this dish a classic carbonara: eggs! First, you’ll need 4 yolks at room temperature. Then, you’ll need 2 whole eggs, also at room temperature. Room temperature is crucial here, as it affects how the eggs cook and the overall consistency. Parmesan Cheese: Finally, set aside 1 cup of grated Parmesan, which adds a savory, salty flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano cheese!
Making Meat-Free Carbonara Is So Easy
Vegetarian spaghetti carbonara involves just 5 steps to create the perfect creamy dish. (It comes together in 20 minutes, including cooking time!) Step 1: Prepare The MushroomsMelt the butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the mushrooms and garlic together. Step 2: Whisk The EggsWhisk the egg yolks and whole eggs. Then, stir in the Parmesan. Step 3: Cook The PastaBring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the salt and spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to save 1 cup of the water you cooked the pasta in for the sauce! Step 4: Temper The EggsVery slowly drizzle the pasta water into the eggs, whisking as you pour. Step 5: Combine The IngredientsFinally, stir the egg mixture and mushrooms into the spaghetti. Serve immediately!
Add These veggies
Want to add more vegetable powerhouse ingredients to your carbonara recipe? We say, go for it! Here are some ideas.
Asparagus: Chop up spears of asparagus for a nutritious crunch in every bite. Quickly sauté or roast them for maximum deliciousness. Zucchini: Fresh chopped zucchini gives your carbonara a total summertime vibe! Sauté them over high heat with a splash of oil until golden brown and slightly soft. Cherry tomatoes: Adding tomatoes is a surefire way to up the juiciness. Throw in fresh halves, roast them to bring out their sweetness, or try sun-dried tomatoes! Red onion: Finally, add a kick to your dish with chopped red onion (fresh, sautéed, or roasted).
