Ingredients
Method
The Pasta Prep
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil.
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until exactly al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Before draining, carefully reserve at least 1 cup of the highly starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Rendering the Base
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the 1-inch bacon pieces to the skillet and cook until the fat renders and the edges begin to crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced white onion to the rendered bacon fat.
- Cook over medium-high heat until the onions are completely soft, translucent, and just beginning to caramelize and brown.
- Season the bacon and onion mixture with the kosher salt and coarse black pepper.
The Emulsion Build
- In a small ceramic mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the 3 large eggs and the grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined into a thick paste.
- Transfer the hot, drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the bacon and onions.
- Remove the skillet from the direct heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Pour the egg and cheese paste directly over the hot pasta and toss rapidly.
- Slowly ladle 1 to 2 splashes of the reserved, hot pasta water into the skillet while continuing to toss. The hot water will gently cook the eggs and emulsify the fat into a smooth, luxurious cream sauce.
The Finish
- Toss the fresh chopped oregano into the pan, folding it into the glossy sauce.
- Serve the pasta immediately, directly from the warm skillet, heavily garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese.