When I first came across Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake recipe, I couldn’t help but be intrigued. A cake that combines the creamy, savory flavors of a traditional carbonara-served in a cake form? It sounded like something straight out of a food lover’s dream.
I remember being a little skeptical at first. A cake isn’t typically something you’d think of for a pasta dish, but Jamie’s recipes have a knack for surprising you. And once I gave it a try, I was hooked. The balance of flavors and textures was simply magic. The soft, cheesy filling paired with the crispy edges took this dish to a whole new level.
This recipe isn’t just about food. It’s about challenging what you think you know about cooking, and about showing that you can create something stunning with the simplest ingredients. And trust me, if you try it, you’ll never look at pasta the same way again.
Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake is a playful take on the classic Italian carbonara. Think of it as a hybrid between a savory quiche and a hearty pasta dish, with a texture and flavor profile that will make you question everything you thought you knew about cake.
The recipe brings together the richness of pasta, the saltiness of pancetta, and the creaminess of eggs and cheese in a way that’s both comforting and elevated. This dish is fantastic for dinner parties, casual get-togethers, or even just as a fun family meal. It’s versatile, delicious, and surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this mouthwatering dish:
- Pasta: Jamie recommends short pasta like penne or rigatoni, which holds the sauce well and gives the cake structure.
- Pancetta or Guanciale: These Italian cured meats bring that salty, savory depth.
- Eggs: Key for binding everything together and giving the dish its silky texture.
- Parmesan or Pecorino Cheese: These cheeses provide the essential sharpness and richness.
- Cream: Adds smoothness to the cake, giving it that velvety feel.
- Garlic: For that aromatic base flavor.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley balances out the richness and adds color to the dish.
- Butter or Oil: To grease the pan and give the cake a nice crisp outer layer.
- Salt and Pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake
Making this Carbonara Cake is a lot simpler than it sounds. Here’s the process, step-by-step:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water.
- Cook the Pancetta: In a large pan, cook the pancetta or guanciale until it crisps up and releases its fat. Add in some garlic for fragrance and cook for another minute.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper. This is the mixture that will bind the pasta and give it that carbonara essence.
- Assemble the Cake: Grease a cake tin with butter or oil. Toss the cooked pasta in the egg mixture and then fold in the crispy pancetta and garlic. Pour the whole thing into the cake tin.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at around 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes or until the cake is golden and crispy on top.
- Serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing it up. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
- Eggs: The magic ingredient in carbonara. Eggs help form the base of the sauce. When combined with hot pasta, they create a silky, creamy texture that coats the noodles. The proteins in the egg act as emulsifiers, helping the fat in the pancetta or guanciale blend smoothly into the dish.
- Pasta: The structure of the pasta is essential in making sure that the cake holds together. Short pasta works best as it holds the sauce and creates that chewy, satisfying texture when baked.
- Cheese: Both Parmesan and Pecorino are essential for adding that signature salty tang to the carbonara. Parmesan is nuttier, while Pecorino brings more sharpness and complexity. Combining both creates a nice balance.
- Pancetta/Guanciale: These cured meats add a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate. The fat in the pancetta helps lubricate the dish, and the crispy bits give the cake texture. Guanciale, if you can get it, adds a more intense flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- Use pasta water: The reserved pasta water can help loosen up the egg mixture if it becomes too thick. It also contains starch that helps create a creamier texture.
- Don’t overcook the cake: The cake should be golden and slightly crispy on the top. Overbaking could cause it to become dry.
- Rest before slicing: Let the cake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
- Mix up the meats: While pancetta and guanciale are traditional, you can experiment with other cured meats like speck or bacon to change the flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s original Carbonara Cake is fantastic, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the pancetta for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. You’ll lose the meatiness, but gain a lovely earthy flavor.
- Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or sage can be added to enhance the flavor. Both herbs have a slightly different character that will give your cake a unique twist.
- Spicy Carbonara Cake: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the egg mixture for a bit of heat, or incorporate some spicy sausage with the pancetta for a bolder flavor.
- Truffle Oil: For a touch of luxury, drizzle some truffle oil on top after baking. It’ll add a fragrant, earthy layer that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cake.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake is a revelation. It combines the best of two worlds: the comforting richness of carbonara and the satisfying structure of a cake. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish brings something special to the table. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple yet elevated, making it accessible to both novice and seasoned home cooks.
FAQs
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake?
It’s a savory cake made with pasta, bacon, eggs, and cheese, inspired by the classic carbonara but baked into a cake form.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta For The Carbonara Cake?
Yes, you can swap out spaghetti for other pasta like penne or fusilli, though spaghetti gives it the classic look.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Carbonara Cake Take To Cook?
The cake takes about 30-40 minutes to bake, depending on your oven’s temperature.