Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara is an exciting twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the comforting creaminess of carbonara with the savory richness of sausages, offering a bold, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara is a delectable fusion of traditional carbonara and hearty sausage. Instead of the usual pancetta or guanciale used in classic carbonara, this dish uses flavorful sausages, typically Italian-style sausages, which are removed from their casings and crumbled for a meaty, satisfying bite.

The creamy sauce, made with eggs and Parmesan cheese, binds the pasta together, creating a comforting and indulgent dish that’s full of flavor and texture. This take on the classic recipe gives a homey and hearty twist, with a touch of rustic charm perfect for an easy yet luxurious dinner.

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pasta: Typically spaghetti, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer such as fettuccine or penne.
• Sausages: Italian sausages work best, preferably a mix of pork and fennel. You will remove the casings and crumble the meat.
• Eggs: A couple of large eggs, used to make the creamy carbonara sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the richest flavor.
• Garlic: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil: For cooking the sausage.
• Fresh Parsley: To garnish and add a burst of freshness.
• Black Pepper: For seasoning and adding a bit of heat.
• Salt: To taste.

Optional ingredients include red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or cream for an even richer sauce.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Frying Pan: For cooking the sausage and making the sauce.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Whisk: To whisk the eggs and cheese into a smooth mixture.
• Grater: For grating the Parmesan.
• Tongs: For tossing the pasta and sausage together.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara?

1. Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, save a cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
2. Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large frying pan over medium heat. Drizzle with olive oil. Add the crumbled sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Carbonara Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Sausage: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the frying pan with the sausage, ensuring to toss well so the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors.
5. Add the Sauce: Remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture, using the residual heat to create a silky, creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Final Touches: Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture and helping it cling to the pasta better.
• Temperature Control: Make sure the pan is off the heat when adding the egg mixture. If the pan is too hot, it could scramble the eggs, ruining the smooth, creamy texture of the sauce.
• Sausage Variations: Try using different types of sausages to vary the flavor. Spicy Italian sausage adds heat, while milder pork sausage gives a sweeter profile. You could even experiment with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Cream Optional: While traditional carbonara doesn’t include cream, if you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to the egg mixture.
• Cheese: For the best flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often has additives that can affect the texture of the sauce.

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara is a delightful spin on a classic favorite. The savory sausage replaces the traditional pancetta or guanciale, providing a richer and heartier flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy carbonara sauce.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite or an impressive dinner option for guests. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, this recipe brings together comfort and indulgence in every bite. Enjoy the layers of flavors and textures that will make you fall in love with carbonara all over again!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara is a delightful twist on the traditional pasta carbonara, bringing rich flavors and hearty textures into a comforting dish. However, you don’t have to stick strictly to the recipe. Here are some variations to enhance the flavor and cater to different preferences:

1. Vegetarian Sausage Carbonara: For those who prefer a meat-free option, simply substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausages made from lentils, beans, or soy protein. The earthy, smoky flavors from these sausages can still add depth to the dish, while keeping it completely plant-based.
2. Adding Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms into the dish for extra texture and flavor. Sauté the mushrooms along with the sausage for an umami-rich experience. Fresh spinach can be tossed in right before serving, wilting it into the warm pasta for a burst of color and freshness.
3. Spicy Sausage Carbonara: If you love heat, try using a spicy Italian sausage (like a spicy chorizo or hot sausage links). This variation adds a zesty kick to the creamy carbonara sauce, giving the dish a fiery contrast to the rich pasta.
4. Creamy Carbonara with a Twist: Traditionally, carbonara is made with egg yolks and cheese for the creamy sauce. To make it extra creamy, you can add a small splash of cream or milk. This is especially great for those who prefer a more indulgent, silky smooth sauce.
5. Carbonara with Bacon: If you want to intensify the flavor profile, you can combine sausage with crispy bacon. The combination of sausage’s savory flavor with bacon’s smoky, salty crunch creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The bacon bits add extra crispness and richness to the dish.
6. Cheese Variations: While pecorino and parmesan are traditional cheeses used in carbonara, you can experiment with others like a sharp cheddar, manchego, or even a blue cheese for a more bold flavor profile. Shredded mozzarella or burrata can also make the dish extra creamy and gooey.
7. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: For a healthier or gluten-free version, swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options. The earthy flavor of whole wheat pasta pairs nicely with the rich sausage and creamy sauce.
8. Herb-Infused Carbonara: Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil can be added to enhance the fragrance and flavor of your carbonara. For a more herby carbonara, add finely chopped herbs into the egg mixture or sprinkle over the top just before serving.

These variations give you the flexibility to adjust the dish according to dietary preferences or flavor desires, all while maintaining the core comforting essence of Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftovers, especially something as delicious as Sausage Carbonara, you want to make sure it stays fresh and retains its flavors. Here’s how to best store and reheat your leftovers:

1. Cool the Pasta Quickly: After enjoying your Sausage Carbonara, let it cool down at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. This prevents bacterial growth and helps preserve the texture of the pasta.
2. Use an Airtight Container: To preserve the flavor and texture of the sauce and pasta, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Refrigeration: Place the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Carbonara tends to dry out and lose some of its creamy texture when stored for long periods, so it’s best consumed within this timeframe.
4. Reheating Tips: When reheating, avoid using the microwave if you want to keep the creamy texture of the sauce. Instead, place the leftovers in a skillet on low heat, adding a small splash of milk or cream to help revive the creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If you must use the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out.
5. Freezing Leftovers: If you know you won’t finish the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing the carbonara. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and sauce may change slightly after freezing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can last up to 1 month in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
6. Revamping Leftovers: If your carbonara has become a bit too thick or dry upon reheating, you can transform it into a new dish by adding more broth, cream, or even turning it into a frittata. Mixing the carbonara with a couple of eggs and baking it in the oven will give you a new take on the original meal.

What Goes Well With Sausage Carbonara?

Sausage Carbonara is rich, savory, and creamy, so pairing it with the right sides and beverages can really enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Salads

   • Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with crisp greens like arugula, spinach, and romaine tossed with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the carbonara and provide a refreshing contrast.
   • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing complements the richness of the carbonara. The bold flavors of parmesan and anchovies in Caesar dressing work wonderfully with the sausage.

2. Vegetables

   • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a nice crunch and depth to the meal. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables balances the savory, creamy carbonara.
   • Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant: For a lighter, Mediterranean-inspired meal, grilled zucchini or eggplant seasoned with olive oil and herbs pairs beautifully with the hearty sausage carbonara.

3. Bread

   • Garlic Bread: A traditional side for pasta dishes, garlic bread is always a hit. The crispiness and garlic flavor elevate the meal and provide a crunchy texture against the creamy pasta.
   • Focaccia or Ciabatta: If you prefer a soft, pillowy bread, focaccia or ciabatta make excellent companions to soak up any remaining sauce from the pasta.

4. Wine Pairings

   • White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can balance out the richness of the dish. The acidity in the wine cuts through the creamy sauce and adds a fresh dimension to the meal.
   • Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, opt for something light and fruity like a Pinot Noir. This won’t overpower the sausage but will complement its savory flavors.
   • Beer: A cold lager or pale ale works well with sausage carbonara, providing a refreshing and slightly bitter contrast to the creamy richness.

5. Dessert

   • Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert like tiramisu makes a delightful end to an Italian-inspired meal. The coffee-soaked layers of cake with mascarpone cream provide a sweet contrast to the savory main dish.
   • Gelato: If you prefer something lighter, a scoop of gelato, perhaps in pistachio or vanilla flavor, can be the perfect sweet ending to the meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara is a versatile, comforting dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a vegetarian option, want to spice things up, or simply add more veggies, there are countless ways to make this dish your own.

Storing leftovers properly and pairing the dish with the right sides and beverages can elevate your meal experience even further. With its creamy richness and hearty sausage flavor, this carbonara is a satisfying meal for any occasion, and with the variations and tips provided, you’ll never get bored of it!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara?

Jamie Oliver’s sausage carbonara typically includes high-welfare sausages (often Italian-style), spaghetti, free-range eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, fresh parsley, olive oil, and optionally white wine or cream depending on variations.

Can I Use Any Type Of Sausage In The Recipe?

While Jamie recommends high-quality Italian sausages for their robust flavor, you can substitute with other types like Cumberland or chorizo, but note that it will alter the taste profile.

Does Jamie Oliver Use Cream In His Sausage Carbonara?

No, Jamie’s traditional-style carbonara avoids cream. The sauce is made creamy by emulsifying eggs, cheese, and pasta water. However, some adaptations may include cream for richness.

How Do You Prevent The Eggs From Scrambling In The Sauce?

To avoid scrambling, remove the pan from direct heat before adding the egg mixture. Stir vigorously with the hot pasta and reserved pasta water to create a silky, smooth sauce.

What Type Of Pasta Does Jamie Oliver Use In His Carbonara?

Spaghetti is Jamie’s go-to choice for this dish, as its texture and shape allow the creamy sauce to cling well, but you can use linguine or bucatini as alternatives.

Is It Necessary To Remove The Sausage Casing?

Yes, Jamie typically removes the sausage skins to crumble the meat into the pan, allowing it to cook evenly and integrate better with the sauce.

Can The Recipe Be Made Gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your sausage is gluten-free, the dish can be adapted for a gluten-free diet without significantly changing the flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Carbonara?

The recipe takes about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying option for a weeknight dinner.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for umami, and ensure the cheese is vegetarian (not made with animal rennet).

What Sides Go Well With Sausage Carbonara?

A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas complement the richness of the carbonara without overwhelming it.