Description
Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that combines the simplicity of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This quick and comforting recipe creates a creamy, flavorful sauce from just a few ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a delicious meal in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt, for boiling water
Sauce
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
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 package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- 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 aroma and 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 to meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce – Reduce heat to low and add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta thoroughly in the pepper-infused water to start building the sauce.
- Melt the Cheese – Gradually sprinkle the finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the pasta while continuously stirring to prevent clumping. Add more reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy, smooth sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
- Enhance (Optional) – For added creaminess, stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Finish and Serve – Continue tossing the pasta until the sauce is smooth and evenly coats each strand. Serve immediately with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and additional black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Reserving pasta water is crucial as its starch content helps create a creamy sauce without cream.
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor impact.
- Grate Pecorino Romano cheese finely to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- If you prefer a milder pepper taste, adjust the amount accordingly.
- Butter is optional but adds richness and a silkier texture to the sauce.
- Serve immediately as the sauce is best enjoyed fresh.
