Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

If you’re a fan of the Cheesecake Factory and crave their indulgent Spaghetti Carbonara, you’re in for a treat!

This recipe captures the essence of the creamy, savory dish, combining simple ingredients with a classic Italian touch. With perfectly cooked pasta, crispy guanciale, and a velvety sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Let’s dive in!

What Does Pasta Carbonara Cheesecake Factory Taste Like?

Pasta Carbonara at the Cheesecake Factory is a rich, indulgent dish that delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors.

The sauce is velvety and coats the pasta beautifully, blending the nutty saltiness of Parmigiano Reggiano with the silkiness of egg yolks. Crispy guanciale (or pancetta) adds a smoky depth and satisfying crunch, while a subtle hint of black pepper enhances the dish’s complexity.

Optional touches like parsley and extra cheese elevate the flavor further. The result is a hearty, comforting plate of pasta that feels luxurious and satisfying with every bite. It’s a classic Italian favorite with a Cheesecake Factory twist—perfect for pasta lovers seeking a rich and decadent experience!

Ingredients Required for Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Cheesecake Factory Carbonara Recipe

• 175g (6 oz.) guanciale (or substitute pancetta or block bacon, skin removed)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 100g (3.5 oz.) Parmigiano Reggiano, finely shredded (or Pecorino Romano or Parmesan)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 400g (14 oz.) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp. cooking/kosher salt (for cooking pasta)
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced (optional)

Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need

1. Large pot for boiling pasta
2. Non-stick skillet or frying pan
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Wooden spoon
5. Fine grater for cheese
6. Knife and cutting board

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Copycat Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Simply follow the steps given below to make your pasta carbonara with chicken cheesecake factory at home

1. Prepare the Guanciale
Cut the guanciale into batons, about 0.5 cm (1/5 inch) thick.

2. Make the Carbonara Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and egg yolks until well combined. Stir in the finely shredded Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta
Bring 4 liters (4 quarts) of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the salt and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.

4. Cook the Guanciale
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the guanciale and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. If using garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking for a subtle aroma.

5. Combine Pasta and Guanciale
Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the guanciale. Toss to coat the pasta in the flavorful fat.

6. Create the Creamy Sauce
Transfer the pasta and any residual fat into the bowl with the egg mixture. Add 1/2 cup of reserved pasta cooking water and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 1 minute. Watch as the sauce transforms into a creamy texture that clings to the pasta strands.

7. Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta into warm bowls. Garnish with extra Parmigiano Reggiano, a sprinkle of black pepper, and chopped parsley for a fresh pop of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Some Tasty Ways To Customize and Serve This pasta carbonara from cheesecake factory

1. Classic Italian Spread
Serve your Spaghetti Carbonara with a side of garlic bread or focaccia, a crisp Caesar salad, and a glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, for a classic Italian dining experience.

2. Surf and Turf Twist
Add a protein boost by serving alongside grilled shrimp or Coconut Lime Chicken for a seafood twist. Alternatively, pair it with a perfectly cooked steak for a hearty surf-and-turf dinner.

3. Vegetable Pairing
Balance the richness of the Carbonara by serving it with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini.

4. Brunch Delight
Transform your Carbonara into a brunch dish by pairing it with soft-boiled eggs and a fresh arugula salad. Add freshly squeezed orange juice or a mimosa for a complete experience.

5. Appetizer Platter
Start your meal with a selection of Italian antipasti, including olives, marinated artichokes, prosciutto, and burrata, before serving the Carbonara as the main course.

6. Light and Fresh Side Salad
Pair the pasta with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sauce.

7. Rustic Feast
Serve your Carbonara with a rustic spread of homemade sourdough bread, olive tapenade, and a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, cheeses, and fruits.

8. Seasonal Soup Starter
Begin your meal with a seasonal soup, such as creamy tomato bisque or a light minestrone, to complement the creamy texture of the pasta.

9. Vegetarian Option
Skip the guanciale for a vegetarian twist, and serve with roasted mushrooms or caramelized onions as a topping for added umami flavor.

10. Wine Pairing Night
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your Spaghetti Carbonara with different wines, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. Include a dessert wine to finish the meal on a sweet note!

Some Tips on This pasta carbonara recipe cheesecake factory

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for authentic guanciale for its rich flavor, but pancetta or block bacon works well as substitutes. Always use fresh Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for the best taste.

2. Room Temperature Eggs

Allow the eggs and yolks to reach room temperature before whisking. This helps them blend more smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamy sauce.

3. Cook Pasta Al Dente

Undercook the pasta slightly (al dente) so it retains a firm bite when tossed with the sauce and guanciale.

4. Reserve Pasta Water

Save at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and adjust its consistency.

5. Crisp the Guanciale Properly

Cook the guanciale over medium-high heat until golden and crispy. Avoid adding oil; the guanciale will render its own fat for frying.

6. Stir Quickly to Prevent Scrambling

When mixing the hot pasta with the egg mixture, stir vigorously and consistently. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.

7. Use a Wooden Spoon

A wooden spoon or pasta fork is ideal for stirring. The handle shape and material help distribute the sauce evenly without breaking the pasta.

8. Warm Your Serving Bowls

Serve the Carbonara in warm bowls to keep the dish at the perfect temperature while eating.

9. Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water

If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired creaminess is achieved.

10. Serve Immediately

Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately after mixing to fully appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Spaghetti Carbonara Properly?

To store Spaghetti Carbonara, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to revive the creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from curdling. Freshly made Carbonara is always best!

Common Queries on This Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe that people often ask.

1. What are the biggest Carbonara mistakes?

The most common mistakes include:

• Overcooking the eggs: This can scramble the eggs instead of creating a creamy sauce.
• Skipping the pasta water: Pasta water contains starch, which is key to achieving a silky sauce.
• Using cream: Traditional Carbonara doesn’t use cream; the sauce relies on eggs, cheese, and pasta water.
• Adding cold pasta to the sauce: The pasta should be hot to emulsify with the sauce properly.
• Overloading with garlic or other extras: Classic Carbonara has minimal ingredients, so simplicity is key.

2. Is the pasta from Cheesecake Factory good?

Yes, the Cheesecake Factory is known for its delicious pasta dishes, including their Spaghetti Carbonara. Their version features a rich and creamy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, making it a customer favorite. This recipe captures that flavor in a homemade version!

3. Why is it called Spaghetti Carbonara?

The dish originates from Italy, and its name “Carbonara” is thought to derive from “carbonaro,” which means “charcoal burner” in Italian. Some believe the dish was a hearty meal for Italian charcoal workers. Another theory suggests the black pepper flakes in the sauce resemble coal.

4. Can I use bacon instead of guanciale?

Yes, you can substitute guanciale with pancetta or block bacon if guanciale isn’t available. While guanciale provides a more authentic flavor, pancetta and bacon work well for a similar savory taste.

5. Is cream ever used in authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe?

No, traditional Carbonara does not include cream. The creaminess of the sauce comes from the combination of eggs, cheese, and hot pasta water. Adding cream is considered a variation, not an authentic version.

6. How can I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

To avoid scrambling, ensure:

The pasta is hot but not piping hot when added to the egg mixture.
You stir vigorously and continuously as you mix the pasta with the egg and cheese mixture.
You use residual heat from the pasta rather than direct heat from the stove.

7. What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If the sauce is too thick, add small amounts of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
If the sauce is too thin, allow it to sit for a moment as the starch in the pasta water thickens it naturally.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh. If prepared in advance, the sauce may thicken or separate. However, you can prep ingredients ahead (e.g., shred cheese, cut guanciale) to save time. Reheating should be done gently to avoid overcooking.

9. Is spaghetti the only pasta you can use for Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other long pasta like bucatini, linguine, or fettuccine. Short pasta like rigatoni or penne can also work, but the sauce clings best to long pasta.

10. What makes this recipe similar to the Cheesecake Factory version?

This recipe mimics the Cheesecake Factory’s creamy, indulgent flavor profile while staying close to traditional Carbonara. The combination of crispy guanciale, rich Parmigiano Reggiano, and a velvety egg-based sauce delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.

This Cheesecake Factory-inspired Spaghetti Carbonara recipe is simple yet decadent, offering a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. With its rich, creamy sauce and crispy guanciale, this dish is sure to impress at dinner parties or as a comforting weeknight meal.

Enjoy your homemade Carbonara masterpiece! Buon appetito! 🍝

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