cacio e pepe recipe ()

Cacio e Pepe Recipe

This Cacio e Pepe Recipe is a classic Roman pasta dish made with just a few simple ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. Creamy without using cream, this authentic Italian favorite delivers bold flavor and silky texture in just 20 minutes. Explore more delicious recipes like Cacio e Pepe Recipe on our website.

cacio e pepe recipe ()
cacio e pepe recipe ()

Ingredients

  • 1 Pound Spaghetti (Or Tonarelli)
  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (Optional, Traditional Version Uses None Or Butter)
  • 2 Teaspoons Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 ¾ Cups Finely Grated Pecorino Romano Cheese
  • 1 Cup Reserved Pasta Cooking Water (As Needed)
  • Salt, For Pasta Water

Optional Variations:

  • ½ Cup Grated Parmesan (For Cacio e Pepe With Parmesan Version)
  • 1 Egg Yolk (For Extra Creamy Version)
  • 1 Cup Cooked Chicken (For Protein Variation)

Directions

  • Bring A Large Pot Of Lightly Salted Water To A Boil. Cook Spaghetti Until Al Dente According To Package Instructions. Reserve 1 Cup Of Pasta Water Before Draining.
  • In A Large Skillet Over Medium Heat, Toast The Freshly Ground Black Pepper For 1–2 Minutes Until Fragrant. Add Olive Oil If Using.
  • Add The Drained Pasta To The Skillet. Toss To Coat In The Pepper.
  • Remove Skillet From Direct Heat. Gradually Add Grated Pecorino Romano While Tossing Constantly.
  • Slowly Pour In Reserved Pasta Water, A Few Tablespoons At A Time, Stirring Continuously Until A Smooth, Creamy Sauce Forms That Coats The Pasta.
  • If Needed, Add More Pasta Water Or Cheese To Adjust Consistency. The Sauce Should Be Silky, Not Clumpy.
  • Serve Immediately With Extra Pecorino And Freshly Cracked Black Pepper On Top.
cacio e pepe recipe ()
cacio e pepe recipe ()

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 800 Per Serving