1-First Step: Cook the noodles Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the 9 ounces of ramen noodles according to the package instructions, usually just a few minutes. Since the seasoning packets are not needed, discard them. Drain the noodles well, then toss them with 1 tablespoon olive oil so they stay loose and do not clump together.

2-Second Step: Mix the sauce base While the noodles cook, add the 2 large eggs and 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese to a bowl. Whisk until smooth and thick. This mixture will become the creamy sauce later, so make sure the cheese is well blended with the eggs.

3-Third Step: Crisp the bacon Place a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crisp, stirring now and then so it browns evenly. Once cooked, drain off the excess fat, but leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan. That little bit of fat adds flavor and helps carry the garlic and noodles.

4-Fourth Step: Add the garlic Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it because garlic burns fast. You just want it fragrant and lightly golden, not dark.

5-Fifth Step: Toss in the noodles Add the cooked noodles directly to the skillet and toss them with the bacon and garlic. Make sure every strand gets coated with the flavorful fat in the pan. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen them a little.

6-Sixth Step: Turn off the heat before adding eggs Remove the skillet from the heat before pouring in the egg and cheese mixture. This step matters a lot because the residual heat will gently cook the eggs without scrambling them. Stir fast and keep tossing the noodles so the sauce turns smooth and creamy. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little warm pasta water one spoonful at a time until it reaches the texture you like.

7-Final Step: Finish and serve Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to taste, then top with fresh chopped basil and a final crack of black pepper. Serve warm right away for the best texture and flavor. This dish is at its creamiest when it is fresh from the pan.