Description
Creamy Avocado Carbonara with Smoked Beef is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the classic creaminess of carbonara with fresh avocado and smoky diced beef, creating a smooth, savory sauce that perfectly coats spaghetti or fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Protein and Cooking
- 1 cup smoked beef, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, garlic clove, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Sauté Smoked Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced smoked beef and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly browned and heated through.
- Toss Pasta in Skillet: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the smoked beef. Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta and gently toss to coat evenly. If needed, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
- Heat Through: Continue to cook the pasta and sauce together in the skillet for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to warm everything through and let the flavors meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamiest texture.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked beef with turkey bacon or pancetta for a different smoky flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes for an optional spicy kick.
- Best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture of the avocado sauce before it thickens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired