Sarah Brown
Ham and mushroom carbonara is a delicious twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, combining creamy sauce, savory ham, and earthy mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe elevates the traditional carbonara by adding sliced mushrooms and diced ham, creating a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With simple ingredients like spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, pancetta or bacon, and fresh parsley, this version balances indulgence with ease, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a carbonara enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this ham and mushroom variation promises a comforting and decadent dining experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Ham and Mushroom Carbonara |
| Cuisine | Italian-inspired |
| Main Ingredients | Ham, mushrooms, spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Cooking Time | Approximately 25-30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Preparation | Chop ham and mushrooms, mince garlic, whisk eggs, grate Parmesan |
| Cooking Method | Sauté ham and mushrooms, cook pasta, create egg and cheese sauce, combine |
| Key Technique | Reserve pasta water for sauce consistency |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, creamy, umami-rich |
| Dietary Notes | Contains eggs and dairy; not suitable for vegans or those with egg/dairy allergies |
| Serving Suggestion | Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan, serve immediately |
| Variations | Substitute ham with bacon or pancetta, add peas or sun-dried tomatoes |
| Storage | Best served fresh; leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days |
| Reheating Tip | Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Ingredients Needed: Gather ham, mushrooms, pasta, eggs, cheese, cream, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop ham, slice mushrooms, grate cheese, whisk eggs, and mince garlic
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, reserve pasta water, then drain
- Sauté Ham & Mushrooms: Heat oil, sauté garlic, add ham and mushrooms, cook until golden and tender
- Combine & Serve: Toss pasta with egg mixture, cheese, and cream, add ham-mushroom mix, serve hot
Ingredients Needed: Gather ham, mushrooms, pasta, eggs, cheese, cream, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper
To begin crafting your ham and mushroom carbonara, the first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Start with the proteins: ham and mushrooms. Opt for high-quality, thinly sliced ham, such as prosciutto or smoked ham, for a rich flavor. For mushrooms, fresh button or cremini mushrooms work best, adding an earthy depth to the dish. Ensure you have enough for a generous portion, typically around 8 ounces of ham and 6 ounces of mushrooms for a family-sized meal. These ingredients form the savory foundation of your carbonara.
Next, focus on the pasta, the heart of the dish. Spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional choices, but any long, ribbon-shaped pasta will work well. Aim for about 1 pound of pasta to serve 4-6 people. While preparing the pasta, remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy water will help bind the sauce later. Alongside the pasta, eggs are crucial for creating the creamy carbonara sauce. You’ll need 3-4 large eggs, depending on the desired richness. Whisk them thoroughly in a bowl and set them aside until needed.
The cheese and cream are essential for achieving the signature creamy texture of carbonara. Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor—use about 1 cup for a well-balanced taste. Heavy cream (around 1/2 cup) enhances the sauce’s richness, though you can adjust the quantity based on your preference for creaminess. These ingredients will be combined with the eggs to create the base of the sauce, so ensure they are measured and ready to go.
Don’t forget the garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, as they bring depth and balance to the dish. Mince 3-4 cloves of garlic to infuse the oil with flavor—this will be the starting point for sautéing the ham and mushrooms. Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust taste, about 3 tablespoons. Seasoning is key: freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat, while salt should be used sparingly, especially if your ham is already salty. These ingredients may seem minor, but they play a significant role in elevating the overall flavor profile.
Finally, take a moment to organize your ingredients before cooking. Lay out the ham, sliced mushrooms, pasta, whisked eggs, grated cheese, cream, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a way that allows for quick access during the cooking process. This preparation ensures a smooth and efficient workflow, allowing you to focus on the technique rather than scrambling for ingredients. With everything gathered and ready, you’re now fully prepared to create a delicious ham and mushroom carbonara.
Quick Egg and Mushroom Scramble Recipe for Breakfast Lovers
You may want to see also
Prepare Ingredients: Chop ham, slice mushrooms, grate cheese, whisk eggs, and mince garlic
To begin preparing your ham and mushroom carbonara, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need ham, mushrooms, Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, eggs, and garlic. Lay out your cutting board, sharp knife, grater, and a small whisk or fork for the eggs. Begin with the ham: place it on the cutting board and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking and distribution in the dish. Set the chopped ham aside in a bowl to keep your workspace organized.
Next, focus on the mushrooms. Clean them gently with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt, as washing them can make them soggy. Slice the mushrooms thinly, ensuring consistency in thickness. Thin slices will cook quickly and blend seamlessly with the pasta. Place the sliced mushrooms in a separate bowl to keep them ready for cooking. Properly preparing the mushrooms is key to enhancing their flavor and texture in the carbonara.
Move on to the cheese: use a fine grater to grate the Parmesan or Pecorino cheese. Grating the cheese finely allows it to melt smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Measure out the required amount and set it aside. Freshly grated cheese will yield the best results, so avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains additives that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
Now, prepare the eggs by cracking them into a bowl and whisking them vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Ensure there are no streaks of yolk or white remaining, as this will create a uniform base for your carbonara sauce. If desired, add a pinch of salt and pepper to the eggs for extra flavor. Set the whisked eggs aside, keeping them at room temperature until ready to use.
Finally, mince the garlic to release its aromatic flavors. Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them on the cutting board. For a smoother texture, you can use a garlic press. Minced garlic will infuse the oil or butter with its flavor during cooking, forming the foundation of your carbonara’s taste profile. Place the minced garlic in a small dish, ready to be added to the pan when needed. With all your ingredients prepared, you’re now set to move on to the cooking stage of your ham and mushroom carbonara.
Spicy Enoki Mushroom Recipe: Quick, Easy, and Flavorful Heat
You may want to see also
Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, reserve pasta water, then drain
To begin crafting your ham and mushroom carbonara, the first crucial step is to cook the pasta to perfection. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. It’s essential to use a generous amount of water to ensure the pasta cooks evenly without sticking together. Once the water is boiling, add a handful of salt—about 1 to 2 tablespoons per gallon of water. Salted water not only seasons the pasta from within but also helps it retain its flavor and texture. Stir the water briefly after adding the salt to ensure it dissolves completely.
Next, add your chosen pasta—typically spaghetti or fettuccine works best for carbonara—to the boiling water. Stir the pasta immediately after adding it to prevent the strands from clumping together. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but aim to cook the pasta until it is *al dente*. This means the pasta should be cooked through but still have a slight firmness when bitten into. Overcooking will result in a mushy texture that doesn’t hold up well in the creamy carbonara sauce.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare a heatproof bowl or measuring cup to reserve some pasta water. Just before draining the pasta, scoop out about 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy cooking water. This reserved pasta water is a secret weapon in achieving the perfect carbonara sauce consistency. The starch in the water helps emulsify the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Once the pasta is *al dente*, quickly drain it in a colander. Shake the colander gently to remove excess water, but don’t rinse the pasta, as this will wash away the starch needed for sauce adherence. If you’re not ready to toss the pasta with the sauce immediately, return it to the empty pot and drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking. However, it’s best to have your sauce components ready to go, as the pasta should be combined with the sauce while still hot for optimal results.
Finally, keep the reserved pasta water close at hand as you proceed with making the carbonara sauce. You’ll add it gradually to adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it’s creamy and coats the pasta without becoming too thick or too thin. Properly cooked and handled pasta is the foundation of a successful ham and mushroom carbonara, setting the stage for the rich flavors of the dish to shine.
Oven-Dried Mushrooms: Simple Steps for Perfectly Preserved Flavor
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Sauté Ham & Mushrooms: Heat oil, sauté garlic, add ham and mushrooms, cook until golden and tender
To begin the process of making ham and mushroom carbonara, the first step is to prepare the ham and mushrooms by sautéing them to perfection. Start by heating a large pan over medium heat and adding a tablespoon of olive oil or any neutral-flavored oil. Allow the oil to heat up for about 30 seconds, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly. This initial step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the flavors to develop. Once the oil is hot, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves to the pan, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden, which usually takes around 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter and ruin the dish.
As the garlic reaches the desired color, it's time to add the ham to the pan. For this recipe, use about 2 cups of diced ham, preferably cured or cooked ham for optimal flavor. Stir the ham into the garlic and oil mixture, ensuring each piece is coated with the infused oil. Let the ham cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, allowing it to release its flavors and slightly brown. This step not only adds taste but also helps to render some of the fat from the ham, contributing to the overall richness of the dish. The sizzling sound and aroma will indicate that the ham is cooking perfectly.
Now, introduce the mushrooms to the pan, adding around 2 cups of sliced button mushrooms or any variety of your choice. Toss the mushrooms with the ham and garlic, making sure they are well-combined. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release their moisture initially, but as they cook, the liquid will evaporate, and they will start to brown. This browning process is essential, as it adds depth of flavor and a slightly chewy texture to the mushrooms, making them a delightful addition to the carbonara.
Continue cooking until the ham is heated through and the mushrooms are tender and golden brown. The exact timing may vary depending on the heat and the type of mushrooms used, so keep a close eye on the pan. You're aiming for a beautiful golden color and a tender texture. This sautéing process not only cooks the ingredients but also intensifies their flavors, creating a robust base for your carbonara sauce. Once the ham and mushrooms reach this stage, they are ready to be combined with the other components of the dish, bringing you one step closer to a delicious ham and mushroom carbonara.
The key to this step is patience and attention to detail. Properly sautéing the ham and mushrooms ensures that each ingredient contributes its unique flavor and texture to the final dish. By following these instructions, you'll create a flavorful foundation that will elevate your carbonara, making it a truly satisfying and memorable meal. Remember, the success of this recipe lies in the careful execution of each step, and sautéing the ham and mushrooms is undoubtedly a crucial part of the process.
Crispy Mushroom Manchurian Recipe: Easy Steps for Perfect Crunch
You may want to see also
Combine & Serve: Toss pasta with egg mixture, cheese, and cream, add ham-mushroom mix, serve hot
Once your pasta is cooked al dente and drained, it’s time to move quickly to ensure the egg mixture doesn’t scramble. In the same large bowl you’ll use for tossing, combine the beaten eggs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of heavy cream. The cream adds richness and helps temper the eggs, preventing them from cooking too fast when they come into contact with the hot pasta. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This egg and cheese mixture will coat the pasta, creating the signature creamy texture of carbonara.
Next, add the hot, drained pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss the pasta vigorously using tongs or a fork to ensure every strand is evenly coated. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. Work quickly to avoid overcooking the eggs, which can cause them to scramble instead of forming a smooth sauce. The pasta should be glossy and well-coated before moving on to the next step.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the ham and mushroom mixture. In a separate pan, you’ve already sautéed diced ham and sliced mushrooms until they’re golden and slightly caramelized. Add this flavorful mix to the pasta and egg mixture, tossing everything together until the ham and mushrooms are evenly distributed. The savory, umami-rich flavors of the ham and mushrooms will complement the creamy, cheesy pasta perfectly, elevating the dish to a hearty and satisfying meal.
Finally, serve the ham and mushroom carbonara immediately while it’s hot. Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls, ensuring each portion gets a generous amount of the ham and mushroom mix. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The dish should be creamy, flavorful, and piping hot, with the pasta perfectly coated in the egg and cheese sauce and the ham and mushrooms adding depth and texture. Enjoy this comforting and indulgent meal right away for the best experience.
Crispy Earthy Mushroom Croquettes: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You’ll need spaghetti (or your preferred pasta), diced ham, sliced mushrooms, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, heavy cream (optional), butter or olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
To avoid scrambled eggs, whisk the eggs and cheese together in a bowl, then slowly mix in a ladle of hot pasta water to temper the mixture. Remove the pasta from the heat before adding the egg mixture and toss quickly to create a creamy sauce.
Yes, you can substitute ham with bacon for a smoky flavor. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and use it in place of the ham in the recipe. Adjust seasoning as needed.
