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30-Minute Steak Carbonara for Two: A Rich, Flavorful Meal in No Time


  • Author: Miya
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye steaks (about 6 oz each): These steaks are tender and flavorful, perfect for searing and pairing with the creamy pasta.
  • Salt and pepper: To season the steaks and enhance their natural flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the steaks to golden perfection.

For the Carbonara:

  • 6 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine): Spaghetti works beautifully in this dish, but you can use any long pasta of your choice.
  • 4 large egg yolks: The egg yolks will form the base of the creamy carbonara sauce.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds richness and sharpness to the carbonara sauce.
  • ½ cup heavy cream: For added creaminess and to help create a velvety sauce.
  • 2 oz pancetta, diced: Adds smoky flavor and a bit of crunch to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: To add a bit of aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the sauce and the pasta.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.

Instructions

FIRST STEP: SEAR THE STEAK

  1. Season the Steak: Begin by seasoning both sides of the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to sear the steaks properly.
  3. Sear the Steak: Place the steaks in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how well-done you like your steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). Adjust the cooking time to your preferred doneness.
  4. Rest the Steaks: Once the steaks are seared to your liking, remove them from the pan and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting the steaks allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE PASTA

  1. Boil the Pasta: While the steaks are resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, firm to the bite.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water. This starchy water will be used to adjust the consistency of the carbonara sauce later.
  3. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta and set it aside.

THIRD STEP: MAKE THE CARBONARA SAUCE

  1. Cook the Pancetta: In the same pan used for the steaks, add the diced pancetta over medium heat. Cook until crispy and golden, about 4-5 minutes. The pancetta will release its fat, which will be used to flavor the sauce.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan with the pancetta and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. The cream will help to create a luscious, velvety sauce.
  4. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the pancetta and garlic. Toss to coat the pasta in the rendered pancetta fat.
  5. Add the Egg Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The residual heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
  6. Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should be smooth and coat the pasta perfectly.

FOURTH STEP: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

  1. Slice the Steak: While the pasta is getting coated in the carbonara sauce, slice the rested steaks against the grain into thin strips.
  2. Plate the Dish: Divide the carbonara pasta between two plates. Top each with sliced steak.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, additional Parmesan cheese, and a handful of fresh parsley for color.
  4. Serve: Serve immediately while the pasta is creamy and the steak is tender.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 600
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 40g