Smoky Carbonara Linguine with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Carbonara Linguine with Smoked Beef

Delight in the creamy and indulgent flavors of Carbonara Linguine with Smoked Beef, a sumptuous dish that marries tender pasta with savory smoked beef and a rich cheese sauce. This recipe, perfect for a comforting dinner, combines the classic elements of carbonara with a twist of smoky goodness. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering meal:

Ingredients:

• 200g Linguine Pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 3 Strips Smoked Beef (cut into small pieces)
• 1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese (or Cheddar cheese, grated, with some reserved for garnish)
• 1 Small Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 Clove Garlic (minced, to taste)
• 200ml Full Cream Milk (or Cooking Cream for a thicker texture)
• 1 Large Egg
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh Basil Leaves (2 small sprigs)
• 2 Tablespoons Margarine (or butter)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by boiling the linguine pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese:
   Grate the Parmesan or Cheddar cheese, using as much as you prefer. Set aside 1/4 of the grated cheese for garnish later.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat the margarine in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and translucent. Avoid letting them brown.

4. Cook the Smoked Beef:
   Add the cut smoked beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Sauté until the beef is slightly cooked but not crispy.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
   Pour the full cream milk into the skillet. If you prefer a richer texture, you can use cooking cream instead. Allow the milk to heat up, then add about 3/4 of the grated cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture begins to thicken.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to cook until the sauce coats the pasta and thickens slightly.

7. Finish with Egg:
   Reduce the heat to low. Crack the egg and quickly stir it into the pasta and sauce mixture. Be sure to mix rapidly to prevent the egg from scrambling. The egg will help to thicken the sauce, giving it that classic carbonara texture.

8. Add Fresh Basil:
   Once the sauce has thickened and the aroma of the dish is rich, turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

9. Serve:
   Plate the pasta and sauce, then garnish with the remaining grated cheese. Enjoy the creamy, smoky goodness of your homemade Carbonara Linguine with Smoked Beef.

This recipe brings together the comforting elements of a classic carbonara with the added depth of smoked beef, perfect for a satisfying meal. Enjoy your cooking and bon appétit!