Vegetarian Spaghetti Carbonara
A creamy, satisfying vegetarian spaghetti carbonara made without bacon—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Easily customizable to be gluten-free or dairy-free!
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowl (for whisking eggs and cheese)
- Tongs or pasta fork (for tossing spaghetti)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti use gluten-free if needed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 cup peas frozen or fresh
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated (or vegan alternative)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup mushrooms finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for dairy-free version
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic, peas, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, black pepper, and nutritional yeast (if using). Set aside.
- Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss with the veggies.
- Remove the pan from heat. Slowly pour in the egg mixture while stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce.
- Add reserved pasta water a bit at a time to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir until glossy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust with salt or more pepper as needed. Serve hot with extra cheese on top if desired.
Notes
- Use gluten-free spaghetti and check all labels for gluten-free certification if needed.
- To make it vegan, replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute and use plant-based cheese.
- For added flavor, try a pinch of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic the smoky taste of bacon.
- Best served immediately. Not recommended for freezing.