Description
This classic Cacio e Pepe recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a creamy, peppery pasta dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Using bucatini or spaghetti, butter, Pecorino Romano cheese, and cracked black pepper, this traditional Italian favorite is perfect for a quick and indulgent weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried bucatini (or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano (plus more for garnish)
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper (toasted)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add a small handful of salt and the dried bucatini or spaghetti to the boiling water.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, reserve 2/3 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Combine Pasta and Butter: Return the drained pasta back into the pot or transfer to a large skillet placed over low heat. Add the reserved pasta water and the unsalted butter, tossing until the butter just melts and coats the pasta evenly.
- Create the Sauce: Add the freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and toasted cracked black pepper to the pasta. Continue tossing to allow the cheese to melt and combine with the pasta water and butter, forming a creamy, peppery sauce that clings to each strand of pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the pasta with additional grated Pecorino Romano if desired and serve immediately for a flavorful, comforting dish.
Notes
- This recipe requires only four simple ingredients, making it quick and easy to prepare.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners due to its minimal preparation time and rich flavor.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper toasted lightly to enhance aroma and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water carefully; it’s key to creating a creamy sauce without cream.
- Use authentic Pecorino Romano for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 621 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 308 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 86 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 57 mg
