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Peppery Pasta Carbonara with Poached Egg

This peppery pasta carbonara with poached egg offers a sophisticated yet simple twist on the beloved Italian classic. By replacing the traditional egg-emulsion sauce with a glossy butter and cheese glaze, and topping the dish with a delicate poached egg, you create a satisfying contrast of textures. The heat from the cracked black pepper cuts beautifully through the saltiness of the crispy bacon and the richness of the Parmigiano-Reggiano.

As a high-protein meal option, this recipe is perfect for a quick midweek supper or a restorative weekend brunch. Using the pasta cooking water ensures a silky finish to the sauce, while the fresh tarragon or parsley adds a bright, herbal note. Serve immediately to enjoy the golden yolk as it breaks over the spaghetti, creating a natural, savoury sauce at the table.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Peppery Pasta Carbonara with Poached Egg

  • 2 bacon slices, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 110g spaghetti

  • 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 80g grated Parmigiano-Reggiano plus additional for serving

  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped tarragon or parsley

  • 1 large egg

Cook bacon in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer bacon with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in a 4-quart saucepan of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 80ml cooking water, then transfer spaghetti with tongs to a small bowl, shaking off excess water, and keep pan of water simmering.

Pour off all but 2 teaspoons bacon fat from skillet, then whisk butter into fat in skillet over medium heat. Add spaghetti, reserved cooking water, cheese, and a rounded 1/4 teaspoons pepper and cook, stirring, until sauce is thickened and almost completely absorbed, 2 to 3 minutes. Add bacon and 1 tablespoon tarragon and toss. Season with salt and pepper.

Break egg into a cup and gently slide into water. Poach at a bare simmer to desired doneness (we prefer a firm white with a runny yolk, 2 to 3 minutes).

Serve pasta topped with egg (transfer using a slotted spoon). Sprinkle with remaining tarragon if desired.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 29 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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