Spaghetti Carbonara

Directions

1. 1
   Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water according to package directions.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large heavy skillet over medium heat until nicely crispy.
3. 3
   Remove bacon from skillet using a slotted spoon to a small bowl.
4. 4
   (Do NOT remove bacon drippings, because that's where this recipe gets its flavor.
5. 5
   ).
6. 6
   Cook onion, garlic, and basil in bacon drippings, stirring, over medium heat until onion is softened.
7. 7
   Drain hot pasta and return to pot.
8. 8
   Immediately pour onion, garlic, and bacon drippings over hot pasta and toss well.
9. 9
   Pour beaten eggs over pasta and stir them quickly into pasta so that they coat pasta as evenly as possible.
10. 10
    It is important that pasta still be steaming for this step, since it is the heat from the pasta that will cook the eggs.
11. 11
    Add cheese and reserved bacon; stir again.
12. 12
    Season with salt and pepper to taste.
13. 13
    Serve immediately.