Description
Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a classic Italian pasta dish that elegantly combines just a few simple ingredients: spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. This quick and flavorful recipe results in a creamy, peppery sauce that beautifully coats the pasta, perfect for a satisfying meal ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
- Salt, for boiling water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente, about 1 minute less than the package instructions recommend. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles.
- Toast the Pepper: In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the freshly ground black pepper for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, enhancing its bold flavor.
- Create the Base: Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the toasted pepper and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will form the foundation of your sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta well to coat it evenly in the pepper-infused water.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually sprinkle the finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese into the pasta while continuously stirring. Add more reserved pasta water, as needed, to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce that clings to each strand.
- Enhance (Optional): For extra creaminess, stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Finish and Serve: Continue tossing the pasta over low heat until the sauce is silky and evenly coats the spaghetti. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
Notes
- Be sure to reserve pasta water before draining—it’s essential for creating the creamy sauce.
- The pepper is toasted to release its essential oils and a deeper flavor.
- Adding butter is optional but adds a richer texture to the dish.
- Use finely grated Pecorino Romano for a smooth cheese melt.
- This dish is best served immediately, as the sauce can thicken as it cools.
