Looking to impress your special someone without emptying your wallet? You’re not alone.
Dining out for a romantic date can easily cost upwards of $100, especially when you factor in appetizers, desserts, and drinks.
But who says you can’t create a magical dining experience right in the comfort of your own home?
That’s why we’re back with another installment in our Budget-Friendly Recipes series, perfect for those intimate evenings. This Spaghetti Carbonara recipe not only offers a luxurious dining experience, but also provides an opportunity to create fun memories as you cook together.
All this for under $15! So, why not skip the crowded restaurants and overpriced menus for a cozy, budget-friendly date night at home?
Frugal Date Night Spaghetti Carbonara: Romance on a Budget
This recipe features Spaghetti Carbonara, a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a romantic evening at home. With its creamy sauce, savory bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will impress your special someone.
- Note: Our cost estimation is based on average prices in the US, but prices will vary depending on your location. Our goal is to help you find ingredients that are generally more affordable!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. spaghetti
- 4 oz. bacon or pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Total cost: Around $12. Serves 2.
Cooking Directions:
- Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and garlic. Cook until garlic is golden, then remove and discard.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti and bacon in the skillet. Remove from heat.
- Quickly add the egg mixture, stirring constantly, to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Take it Up a Notch: Frugal Add-Ons
Want to make your date night even more special? Here are some budget-friendly ways to elevate your evening:
- Appetizer: Bruschetta: A simple yet flavorful appetizer that pairs well with Spaghetti Carbonara. You only need a baguette, some tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. Slice and toast the baguette, then top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Dessert: Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Melt some chocolate chips in the microwave and dip strawberries for a romantic and affordable dessert.
- Wine Pairing: If you have room in your budget, a bottle of Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio can complement the creamy Carbonara perfectly. You don’t have to splurge; many decent bottles are available for under $20.
Total Additional Cost: Around $15-$25, depending on your choices.
Cooking Tips for Two: Making It a Team Effort
Many people think cooking for two can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be.
In fact, cooking together can be a fun and rewarding experience that strengthens your bond. Here’s how you can divide and conquer this Spaghetti Carbonara recipe:
- Pasta Duty: One person can be in charge of boiling the pasta. This involves filling a pot with water, bringing it to a boil, adding salt, and cooking the pasta until it’s al dente.
- Sauce & Bacon: The other person can focus on preparing the sauce and cooking the bacon or pancetta. This involves whisking the eggs and Parmesan together and cooking the bacon until it’s crispy.
- Garlic & Final Touches: Once the bacon is done, the person on pasta duty can sauté the garlic in the same pan, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- Combine & Serve: The final step involves both of you. One can add the cooked pasta to the pan with bacon, while the other can pour in the egg mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
- Set the Mood: While cooking, put on some of your favorite music to make the experience even more enjoyable. Whether it’s jazz, classical, or your favorite playlist, music adds a special touch to your cooking adventure.
Cooking together not only makes the process faster but also adds a fun, collaborative element to your date night. Plus, the shared experience of creating something delicious from scratch is a memory you’ll cherish.
Setting the Mood on a Budget: Romance Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
Creating a romantic atmosphere doesn’t require a big budget; it’s all about the little touches that make the evening special.
Here are some budget-friendly ways to set the mood:
- Candlelight: Skip the fancy lighting fixtures and go for the timeless romance of candlelight. Even just a couple of candles can transform your dining space into a cozy, intimate setting.
- Playlist: Create a playlist of songs that are meaningful to both of you or simply tunes that you both enjoy. Music is a powerful mood-setter, and it’s free if you already have a streaming service.
- Table Setting: You don’t need expensive tableware to make your dining table look beautiful. Use what you have, but arrange it neatly. A clean tablecloth or even a simple piece of fabric can serve as a nice base.
- Flowers: A small bouquet of fresh flowers can add a touch of elegance. If buying flowers isn’t in the budget, consider picking a few wildflowers or even using some greenery from your yard.
- Personal Touch: Add a personal touch, like a handwritten note or card placed on the table. It’s a sweet, cost-free way to express your feelings and make the meal even more special.
- Thrift Store Finds: If you want to add some unique touches, thrift stores can be a goldmine for affordable, romantic items like vintage candle holders or unique plates.
Remember, setting a romantic mood is less about how much you spend and more about the thought and effort you put into making the evening special.
With a little creativity, you can create a memorable, budget-friendly date night right at home.
Additional Savings & Hot Tips
- Bulk Parmesan: Consider buying a larger block of Parmesan and grating it yourself to save money.
- Use Leftover Bacon: If you have leftover bacon from breakfast, this is a great way to use it up.
Final Thoughts
This Frugal Date Night Spaghetti Carbonara is the perfect way to enjoy a romantic evening without the high costs often associated with date-night dining. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What are some good vegetarian substitutes for bacon?
You can use smoked tempeh or even sautéed mushrooms seasoned with a bit of liquid smoke for a vegetarian alternative.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan is traditional, you can also use Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses if you prefer.
How can I store leftovers?
Spaghetti Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Reheat gently to avoid scrambling the eggs.
What if I don’t have olive oil?
You can use butter or even the bacon fat for sautéing the garlic if you don’t have olive oil.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Peas or spinach can be a great addition if you want to include some greens.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published Oct 3, 2023 and has been updated to improve reader experience.
