Dairy-Free Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with this Dairy-Free Classic Spaghetti Carbonara, a modern twist on the traditional dish that’s completely free of dairy but loaded with rich, creamy goodness. This recipe swaps heavy cream and cheese for a velvety sauce made with unsweetened almond milk, nutritional yeast, and chickpea flour, creating a luscious, plant-based alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Crispy smoked pancetta (or your favorite bacon alternative) and aromatic garlic add depth and savory notes, while a touch of turmeric provides a golden hue reminiscent of the original. Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, this family-friendly meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tossed together with al dente spaghetti and finished with fresh parsley, this dairy-free carbonara will satisfy your pasta cravings while remaining light and wholesome.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 150 grams smoked pancetta or bacon alternative
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 0.25 cup chickpea flour
• 0.25 teaspoon turmeric

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced smoked pancetta or bacon alternative and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3

Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet with the pancetta, cooking them until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the skillet from heat.

Step 4

In a mixing bowl, combine almond milk, nutritional yeast, chickpea flour, turmeric, and cornstarch. Whisk together until smooth. This mixture will serve as your dairy-free sauce.

Step 5

Return the skillet with pancetta and garlic to low heat. Stir in the almond milk mixture, season with salt and black pepper, and allow it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and use tongs to thoroughly mix the pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky, creamy consistency.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta before serving.

Step 8

Serve the Dairy-Free Classic Spaghetti Carbonara immediately, garnishing with additional nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(900.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1749.7

Total Fat 92.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 105mg	0%
Sodium 4072.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 164.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.9g	0%
Total Sugars 7.9g
Protein 62.9g	0%

Vitamin D 87.8IU	0%
Calcium 531.5mg	0%
Iron 12.3mg	0%
Potassium 1274.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.8%

Protein: 14.5%

Carbs: 37.7%