Garlic Confit Carbonara

Ingredients

• 2 heads garlic (cloves peeled)
• 1 cup olive oil (for confit)
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 12 confit garlic cloves (or more; reserved from confit prep)
• 1 tbsp garlic confit oil (reserved from confit prep)
• 3 tbsp butter (soft, room temperature)
• 3 egg yolks
• 2 oz Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 1 oz Pecorino cheese (finely grated)
• 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.25 cup pasta water (reserved from boiling, as needed)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the garlic confit: Add the peeled garlic cloves and 1 cup of olive oil to a small saucepan.

2. 2

   Cook over the lowest heat possible for 30–45 minutes until the cloves are completely soft and lightly golden. Alternatively, bake in a small dish at 250°F (120°C) for 60–75 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove from heat and reserve both the softened garlic cloves and the flavored oil.

4. 4

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

5. 5

   While the pasta cooks, reserve at least 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.

6. 6

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 12 (or more) confit garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of the garlic oil, room temperature butter, egg yolks, grated Parmesan, grated Pecorino, crushed red pepper, and parsley.

7. 7

   Mash the ingredients together with a fork or whisk until the garlic is broken down and the mixture is smooth.

8. 8

   Slowly whisk in a few splashes of the hot pasta water into the egg mixture until it becomes creamy and loosened.

9. 9

   Add the hot, drained spaghetti to the bowl and toss vigorously.

10. 10

    Continue tossing, adding more pasta water as needed, until the sauce emulsifies into a glossy and silky coating on the pasta.

11. 11

    Serve immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino, Parmesan, parsley, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

The garlic confit can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Ensure the oil completely covers the garlic if storing. Use the leftover garlic oil for salad dressings or dipping bread.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• pasta
• dinner
• garlic
• carbonara
• Italian