Name: Peppery Pasta Carbonara with Poached Egg
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Makes 1 serving
Ingredients: 2 bacon slices, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/4 pound spaghetti; 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano plus additional for serving; 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped tarragon or parsley; 1 large egg

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Photo by Romulo Yanes

Pasta and pork—what's not to love? Spaghetti alla carbonara traditionally calls for guanciale (cured pork jowl), but bacon is weeknight-friendly and every bit as satisfying. Raw egg is typically mixed into the hot pasta, but a poached egg on top feels more substantial while still providing the requisite creaminess.

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