Cacio e pepe recipe

Chi & Kel

Cacio e pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that proves simplicity can be delicious. Made with only three main ingredients, spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly ground black pepper.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
3 Tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
1 teaspoon Black pepper
1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti until it’s just tender, following the directions on the package. Before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta water and set aside.
In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the freshly cracked black pepper and let it cook for about a minute to bring out its full flavor.
Add about ½ cup of the saved pasta water to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and another tablespoon of butter.
Turn the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the grated cheese, stirring constantly. Keep tossing the pasta until the cheese melts into a smooth, glossy sauce.
If needed, splash in more pasta water until the consistency is creamy and coats the noodles well.
Serve the pasta hot, straight from the pan to the plate. This dish is all about simplicity and comfort, enjoy it while it’s fresh!

Notes

Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. If Pecorino Romano isn’t available, a good Parmesan will work too.
Freshly cracked pepper, finely grated cheese, and a solid brand of pasta can really make a difference, this dish lets each ingredient shine.
Always save at least a cup or two of pasta water. Its starchiness is the secret to a rich, creamy sauce. You might not need it all, but it’s handy to have on standby.
Finely grating the cheese helps it melt more evenly into the sauce, preventing clumps and giving you a velvety finish.
Toasting the black pepper in butter brings out its warmth and spice, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
This pasta is meant to be served right away—don’t wait! The sauce is at its creamiest when it’s fresh and hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 384kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 15gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 952mgPotassium: 154mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 366IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 282mgIron: 1mg

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