Spaghetti Carbonara Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy and Tasty

If you’ve ever been enchanted by the creamy, comforting allure of traditional spaghetti carbonara, you’ll be thrilled to discover that you don’t need bacon or pancetta to enjoy this classic Italian dish.

This vegetarian spaghetti carbonara recipe captures all the luscious flavors and silky textures using simple, plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to reduce meat consumption, or simply craving a delicious pasta meal, this recipe offers a satisfying twist on a beloved favorite.

With the perfect balance of rich, cheesy sauce, aromatic garlic, and hearty mushrooms that mimic the smoky depth of bacon, this dish proves that comfort food can be both meat-free and mouthwateringly good.

It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty garlic bread, rounding out your meal with ease.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with a vegetarian carbonara that’s bursting with flavor and creamy goodness without the need for any meat. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian spaghetti carbonara is a delightful balance of tradition and innovation. It retains the creamy, cheesy essence of the original while using mushrooms and smoked paprika to add depth and umami.

The recipe is:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-packed: Smoky, savory, and creamy without any meat.
• Adaptable: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or plant-based alternatives.
• Comforting and hearty: Perfect for cooler evenings or when you need a cozy meal.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Great for those who avoid meat but crave traditional pasta dishes.

If you love creamy pasta dishes, be sure to also check out my Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for more delicious inspiration.

Ingredients

• 350g spaghetti (use gluten-free if desired)
• 200g cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese alternative)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds smoky flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or chopped spinach for extra veggies

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Colander or pasta strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Prepare the mushroom ‘bacon’: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
3. Add garlic and smoked paprika: Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using peas or spinach, add them now and cook until heated through.
4. Mix eggs and cheese: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a little black pepper. Set aside.
5. Combine pasta and mushrooms: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with mushrooms. Toss well to combine and slightly cool the pasta (so the eggs won’t scramble on contact).
6. Create the creamy sauce: Remove the skillet from heat. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly and continuously to coat the strands evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and create the perfect creamy texture.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and add extra salt, pepper, or cheese if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“The key to a silky carbonara sauce is to toss the pasta off the heat and add the egg mixture gradually, using reserved pasta water to get that luscious creaminess without scrambling the eggs.”

• Make it vegan: Use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast and substitute eggs with silken tofu blended with a little turmeric for color.
• Add extra veggies: Try roasted zucchini, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
• Use different mushrooms: Shiitake or portobello can add a meatier texture and deeper flavor.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can be mixed in for a fresh herbal note.

For more creative vegetarian pasta ideas, explore my Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes which pairs beautifully with many vegetable-based pastas.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition values are approximate and based on standard ingredient brands. Adjustments may be needed depending on the specific products used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian spaghetti carbonara pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to balance the creamy richness of the pasta.

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up extra sauce
• Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans
• A glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water with lemon

For a wholesome meal idea that complements this pasta, try the Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals which offer vibrant flavors and nutritious vegetables.

Conclusion

Vegetarian spaghetti carbonara is a testament to how traditional comfort foods can be reimagined without meat, yet still deliver on flavor and satisfaction. This recipe balances creamy eggs, savory mushrooms, and a hint of smoky paprika for a dish that’s both hearty and wholesome.

It’s perfect for anyone seeking a quick, easy, and delicious pasta dinner that honors Italian culinary roots while embracing vegetarian values.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and explore other vegetarian favorites like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to round out your cooking repertoire.

Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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