Carbonara pasta bake

Tips: Get the best carbonara pasta bake

Discover our top tips to take your carbonara pasta bake from good to great. Keep reading below!

Allow resting time before serving

After baking, let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions. It also helps the flavours meld together, ensuring a delicious and well-textured dish that is ready to impress.

Cook pasta al dente and drain well

To achieve the perfect texture after baking, cook the tagliatelle until it is al dente, meaning firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during baking. After boiling, drain the pasta thoroughly to remove excess water, which helps the sauce cling better and keeps the dish from becoming watery. The pasta will continue to cook as it bakes in the oven, so it is very important not to overcook it beforehand.

Try our easy recipe for carbonara pasta bake

Discover the comforting flavours of our carbonara pasta bake, which combines tender pasta with slightly salty smoked ham and cheesy sauce. Easy to prepare and bake, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy a delicious new take on traditional carbonara that is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Creamy pasta sauce with savoury smoked ham and earthy peas

This delightful dish features a velvety pasta sauce that perfectly complements the savoury and smoky notes of the ham, resulting in a luxurious and deeply satisfying flavour. The addition of green peas introduces a subtle hint of sweetness and a tender texture, effectively balancing the richness of the cheese sauce. The bright green peas lighten the overall composition of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.

Grated cheese gratin for a golden-brown crust

The crowning glory is the grated cheese gratin. As it bakes, the cheese melts and browns, forming a crispy, golden crust that adds a delightful texture to the creamy layers beneath. This contrast between the crunchy top and the smooth, rich interior creates a sumptuous eating experience. The grated cheese enhances the flavour and gives the dish an irresistible visual appeal, making it stand out at any dinner.

A quick and simple way to tasty comfort food

The best comfort food is the easy version. Our recipe combines the best of both, giving you a one-pot dish that you simply pop in the oven. If you are craving carbonara but want a hassle-free version where you can just mix and bake the ingredients, this is what you are looking for. You get the basic elements of carbonara with salty ham, cheese, and pasta, but baked in the oven until golden and delicious – quick and simple!

Try other carbonara variations with our recipes for kale carbonara, carbonara with cheddar and egg yolk, cottage cheese carbonara, mushroom carbonara, or courgette carbonara.

Get creative with the recipe

Enhance your carbonara pasta bake with a few exciting twists. Add sautéed mushrooms and onions for a savoury depth and slight sweetness, or red peppers for a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.

Instead of bacon, consider tender chicken, flaky tuna, a savoury sausage, or pancetta. These are excellent alternatives to smoked ham, with pancetta being the classic choice in an authentic carbonara.

Introduce baby spinach into the mix for a fresh, slightly earthy taste and vibrant colour that complements the peas, or incorporate crème fraîche into the pasta sauce for an extra layer of creaminess and tangy richness. A sprinkle of chilli flakes in the sauce adds a subtle heat for those who prefer a slightly spicy kick.

For the topping, top with grated Parmesan cheese to achieve a sharp, nutty flavour and a crispy texture. Mix grated cheese with breadcrumbs and a bit of melted butter to form a crispy, golden crust. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley and a hint of fresh black pepper.