Simple Mushroom Carbonara
Simple Mushroom Carbonara is a creamy and satisfying twist on the classic Italian favorite. Instead of using pork, this version builds deep flavor by caramelizing mushrooms until golden and rich. The result is a comforting vegetarian pasta dish that feels indulgent while using only a handful of simple ingredients.
Simple Mushroom Carbonara
This recipe focuses on technique to create a silky sauce without cream. The eggs and parmesan combine with hot pasta and reserved pasta water to form a smooth coating that clings to every strand of spaghetti. The mushrooms add savory depth, while garlic, shallots, thyme, and a splash of balsamic vinegar enhance the overall flavor. It is a perfect balance of creamy texture and earthy richness.
Ingredients Needed to Make Simple Mushroom Carbonara
- 2 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups of sliced baby bell mushrooms
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, minced
- 1 tsp of balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp of thyme
- 12 ounces cooked spaghetti noodles
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Notes for Success~
✔️ Remove the pan from direct heat before adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
✔️ Use reserved pasta water gradually to control the thickness of the sauce.
✔️ Caramelize the mushrooms well to build the deepest flavor.
✔️ Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce.
✔️ Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
🍽️ How to Serve Simple Mushroom Carbonara
- Serve this dish as a main course with a crisp Kale Ranch Salad or a refreshing Shaved Brussels Caesar Salad to balance the richness and round out your plate.
- Pair it with Grilled Chicken Thighs, Lemon Dijon Salmon, or Garlic Roasted Chicken for a satisfying and comforting meal.
- This pasta also works as a make-ahead option. Leftovers reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
If you make this Simple Mushroom Carbonara recipe, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And, of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or TikTok! I love seeing the recipes you make!
Simple Mushroom Carbonara
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 egg yolks plus 1 whole egg
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 ½ sliced baby bella mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 shallots minced
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp thyme
- 12 ounces cooked spaghetti noodles
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Before draining, reserve one cup of the pasta water.12 ounces cooked spaghetti noodles, 1 cup reserved pasta water
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth. Set aside.2 egg yolks plus 1 whole egg, ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until deeply golden and caramelized, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally and allow them to release and cook off their moisture. Add the minced shallots and garlic to the skillet and cook for another 6- 8 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and thyme.1 tbsp Olive oil, 2 ½ sliced baby bella mushrooms, 3 cloves garlic, 2 shallots, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, ½ tsp thyme
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the mushrooms.
- Remove the skillet from direct heat. Slowly pour in the egg and cheese mixture while tossing continuously. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until a creamy sauce forms and coats the pasta evenly.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on top.Salt and pepper to taste
Notes
✔️ Use reserved pasta water gradually to control the thickness of the sauce.
✔️ Caramelize the mushrooms well to build the deepest flavor.
✔️ Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce.
✔️ Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
