Roasted Asparagus and Mushroom Carbonara

Roasted Asparagus and Mushroom Carbonara is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. Crispy pancetta, roasted vegetables, and a silky egg-parmesan sauce come together to create a comforting yet elegant meal. The earthy mushrooms and bright asparagus add depth and balance, making it perfect for spring dinners or anytime you want a satisfying pasta without the heaviness of cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A lightened-up, veggie-forward take on traditional carbonara
• No cream—just a silky sauce made with eggs and Parmesan
• Roasting the veggies adds flavor and texture
• Quick and easy to make, ideal for weeknights
• Packed with savory, smoky, and earthy notes
• Elegant enough for entertaining
• One pot + one sheet pan = minimal cleanup
• Easily adaptable to vegetarian diets
• Great way to use seasonal produce
• Comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delicious

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti or linguine
• Eggs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil
• Pancetta or bacon (optional)
• Asparagus
• Mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake)
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Trim asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Slice mushrooms. Toss both with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15–18 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. While pasta cooks, cook pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Wipe out excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
6. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan, and lots of freshly ground black pepper.
7. Return hot pasta to the pan (off the heat). Quickly add the egg mixture, stirring constantly to create a silky sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
8. Stir in roasted asparagus, mushrooms, and pancetta.
9. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Omit the pancetta and add a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
• Lemon twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the dish.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese before serving.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• More veggies: Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Herb flavor: Mix in fresh basil or thyme for an herby finish.

storage/reheating

Carbonara is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of pasta water or milk, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini also work well with carbonara sauce.

Is there cream in carbonara?

Traditional carbonara uses no cream—just eggs, cheese, and pasta water for the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the pancetta and add a little extra cheese or seasoning for richness.

What mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Cremini and button mushrooms are great, but shiitake or a wild mushroom blend adds more flavor.

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

Add the egg mixture off the heat and stir vigorously. The residual heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs into a silky sauce.

Can I roast the vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, roast them earlier in the day and reheat just before stirring into the pasta.

What cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano is best for flavor and texture.

Can I add garlic to the sauce?

You can sauté minced garlic in the pancetta fat before adding the pasta for extra flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of familiar flavors that most kids enjoy.

Can I make this a full meal?

Yes, it’s already well-balanced, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to round it out.

Conclusion

Roasted Asparagus and Mushroom Carbonara is a deliciously modern spin on a classic pasta dish. It’s creamy without being heavy, packed with flavor, and easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner, this dish brings comfort, elegance, and a seasonal flair to the table.

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