Description

This Avocado Carbonara is a creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. Made with ripe avocados, Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic, this recipe delivers a rich and silky sauce without using heavy cream. It’s a healthier alternative that still offers indulgent flavors and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz spaghetti or linguine
2 ripe avocados
2 egg yolks
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
4 slices bacon or pancetta, cooked and crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender, combine ripe avocados, egg yolks, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Crisp the Bacon: In a large pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Combine with Pasta: In the same pan, add the drained pasta, avocado sauce, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss over low heat until well coated.
Finish and Serve: Stir in crumbled bacon, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Notes

Vegetarian: Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
Extra Protein: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce.
Cheesy Twist: Add pecorino cheese for a sharper taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Keywords: Avocado Carbonara Recipe Healthy Carbonara Alternative Creamy Avocado Pasta Quick Carbonara Recipe Easy Pasta with Avocado Sauce