Cooking after a long day? Grab Jamie Oliver’s simple bucatini carbonara recipe and whip up an authentic Italian dinner in just 10 minutes!
Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredient pasta can be made in 10 minutes for an easy dinner. Preparing dinner during busy weeknights can feel overwhelming, yet it’s possible to create a satisfying, home-cooked meal in a flash. Thanks to Jamie Oliver, you can savor the rich flavors of an authentic Italian dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This pasta dish combines quality ingredients and simple steps, making it the perfect go-to for an easy dinner.
This mouthwatering recipe only requires five simple ingredients, which ensures that anyone can handle it—regardless of culinary expertise. Collaborating with acclaimed Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo, Jamie has crafted a recipe that is not only easy but guarantees an unforgettable dining experience in your home.
On his website, Jamie expresses: “Get carbonara right every time with this mini masterclass of a recipe from Jamie and Gennaro. All you need is a spare 10 minutes and a handful of quality ingredients, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable bowlful.” This invitation to enjoy a masterpiece of flavors showcases the ease and satisfaction of preparing this delicious dish.
Key Ingredients that Make a Difference
- Dried bucatini pasta (150g): This unique pasta type is essential. Its hollow shape allows it to soak up the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Pecorino cheese (50g): A salty, tangy cheese that elevates the dish by adding depth and richness to the sauce.
- Smoked pancetta (40g): Provides a savory, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.
- Large eggs (3): The heart of the carbonara sauce, creating that signature creamy texture when mixed properly.
- Black pepper: Essential for seasoning, offering a peppery kick that balances the dish.
Making Bucatini Carbonara
Follow these straightforward steps for a quick and authentic pasta dinner
1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water and add 150g of dried bucatini pasta. Follow the cooking instructions on the package until al dente.
2. Prepare the Pancetta: While the pasta cooks, heat a large frying pan on medium heat. Add the smoked pancetta and cook it until it becomes golden and crispy. This typically takes about 5 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and sprinkle generously with black pepper.
3. Mix the Eggs: In a separate bowl, separate the yolks of two eggs. Combine these yolks with one whole egg and add a splash of water. Whisk until well-mixed. Stir in most of the grated pecorino cheese, leaving some for garnish.
4. Combine and Cook: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly into the pan with the cooked pancetta (the residual heat will help in the next step). Now, pour the egg mixture over the hot pasta. Important: ensure the pan isn't too hot, or the eggs will scramble. Stir quickly to create a silky sauce, incorporating all ingredients.
5. Serve: After a few moments, garnish your bowl with the leftover pecorino cheese and an extra dusting of black pepper. Your delicious bucatini carbonara is ready to be enjoyed!
Why Choose This Recipe?
This Jamie Oliver pasta recipe is a fantastic solution for several reasons
- Quick: In just 10 minutes, you can have a fully cooked meal at the dinner table.
- Minimal Ingredients: With only five items needed, it’s budget-friendly and easy to modify for dietary preferences.
- Satisfying and Delicious: The combination of flavorful ingredients ensures a rich, decadent dish that everyone will love.
For those seeking easy dinner recipes, this bucatini carbonara stands out as a versatile option that can be adjusted based on what ingredients you have on hand. Add fresh vegetables like peas or mushrooms, or experiment with other types of cheese if that's your preference.
Making Weeknight Cooking Enjoyable
Busy weekdays don’t mean sacrificing delicious meals. With Jamie Oliver’s 5-ingredient pasta, enjoying an authentic dish is simpler than ever. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just for yourself, this recipe guarantees satisfaction and flavor without demanding too much time or effort.
Bucatini carbonara is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Embrace the rewarding feeling of preparing a delightful dinner that both you and your loved ones can enjoy. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling, and with chefs like Jamie Oliver at our side, we can create culinary art in just minutes.
Try this recipe tonight, and make dinner a celebration of good food, connection, and flavor-packed simplicity!