Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that translates to “cheese and pepper.” It features simple ingredients—pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper—coming together to create a creamy, flavorful sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti (or tonnarelli)
• 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• Salt (for pasta water)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Timing

Making the Cacio e Pepe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Crack Pepper: While the pasta is cooking, coarsely grind a generous amount of black pepper (about 2 teaspoons or to taste) into a large skillet.
2. Toast Pepper: Place the skillet over medium heat and toast the pepper for about 1 minute until fragrant. This enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the toasted pepper.
2. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and quickly add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Toss the pasta vigorously to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until a creamy sauce forms. The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Finish with Butter: If using, stir in the butter for extra creaminess.
2. Plate and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano cheese and more freshly cracked black pepper.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Cacio e Pepe (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	15g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	65g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Pasta Variations: While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta types like fettuccine or bucatini.
• Cheese Options: For a different flavor, try mixing Pecorino Romano with Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Additions: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, peas, or even crispy pancetta for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet indulgent pasta dish that highlights the beauty of minimal ingredients. With its creamy texture and bold pepper flavor, it’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe!