I remember the first time I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake recipe. I was hosting a small dinner party, desperate for something impressive yet easy. I was drawn in by the idea of a cake that wasn’t sweet-a savory cake packed with pasta, eggs, and cheese. When I served it, everyone’s jaws dropped. It felt like comfort food and gourmet cooking rolled into one.
- This recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers.
- Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or even a hearty snack.
- Brings a twist to classic carbonara in a playful and shareable form.
Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake Recipe
Making a carbonara cake might sound fancy, but Jamie Oliver breaks it down into manageable steps. The beauty is in combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both creamy and structured. I love how the layers of pasta and egg mix transform into something almost cake-like.
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy without being greasy.
- A fun conversation starter because of its unique presentation.
- Ideal for experimenting with flavors while staying true to classic carbonara.
Ingredients Needed
The first time I gathered the ingredients, I felt like I was preparing for a cooking adventure. Every item has its purpose, from texture to flavor balance.
- Pasta: 400g of spaghetti or bucatini. The shape matters for soaking up the sauce.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs for creaminess and structure.
- Pancetta or smoked bacon: 150g, cubed for salty crunch.
- Parmesan cheese: 50g, freshly grated for nutty richness.
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp to lightly sauté the pancetta.
- Fresh black pepper: For seasoning and a slight kick.
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish, 1 clove of garlic if you want extra aroma.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake
The first time I made this, I was amazed at how easy it was. The steps are straightforward, yet the results feel like something a professional chef made.
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Cook The Pasta
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and drizzle with a touch of olive oil.
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Cook The Pancetta
- Heat olive oil in a pan.
- Add pancetta cubes and fry until golden and slightly crispy.
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Prepare The Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk eggs with grated Parmesan and black pepper.
- The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
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Combine Pasta And Pancetta
- Toss the pasta in the pancetta pan to coat it with flavor.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly so eggs don’t scramble.
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Assemble The Cake
- Mix the pasta with the egg mixture.
- Pack it tightly into a greased cake tin.
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Bake The Carbonara Cake
- Bake at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes.
- The top should be golden, and the inside creamy.
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Serve
- Allow the cake to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I love thinking about why this recipe works. Each component plays a scientific role.
- Eggs: Act as a binder, helping the cake hold its shape while creating a creamy texture.
- Pasta: Absorbs flavors from the pancetta and egg mixture, making every bite rich.
- Cheese: Melts and coagulates with the eggs, adding structure and depth.
- Pancetta: Adds fat, flavor, and a crunchy contrast.
Understanding these interactions helps you tweak the recipe without losing its magic.
Expert Tips
The first time I overcooked my eggs, the cake was dry. After trial and error, I learned some crucial tricks:
- Always remove the pan from heat before mixing in eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Pack the pasta tightly in the tin to hold shape.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-grated, for better melting and flavor.
- Let the cake rest before slicing-it helps maintain its structure.
Recipe Variations
I like to play around with this recipe depending on the season or guests’ preferences.
- Vegetarian: Replace pancetta with roasted mushrooms.
- Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey center.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the egg mixture.
- Mini cakes: Use muffin tins for individual servings, perfect for parties.
Final Words
The first time I served Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake, I felt proud and a little smug. It’s simple but sophisticated. Friends kept asking for the recipe, and I realized this dish isn’t just about flavor-it’s about the joy of sharing something unexpected.
- It’s a conversation starter.
- It’s versatile for any occasion.
- It’s a reminder that comfort food can be elevated effortlessly.
FAQs
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake?
It’s a twist on the traditional carbonara, combining pasta and the rich flavors of a classic carbonara into a cake form. Think of it as a savory, cheesy pasta pie.
Can I Use Other Types Of Cheese For The Carbonara Cake?
Yes! While Jamie recommends Parmesan and Pecorino, you can swap them for other hard cheeses like Grana Padano if you prefer.
How Do I Get The Perfect Crispy Top For The Carbonara Cake?
To get that golden crispy top, bake the cake at a high heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures the top becomes crunchy and delicious.