Cacio e Pepe is a simple but delicious Italian pasta dish that uses just three main ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The magic happens when the cheese melts with the hot pasta water, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce without using cream or butter.
This dish is rich, cheesy, and slightly spicy from the black pepper, making it comforting and satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for a fast yet elegant meal. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Cacio e Pepe proves that simple ingredients can create amazing flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it relies on the perfect combination of pasta water, cheese, and black pepper to create a smooth and creamy sauce. The starch from the pasta water helps bind the cheese, coating each strand of pasta evenly. Toasting the black pepper enhances its flavor, giving the dish a warm, slightly spicy taste that balances the richness of the cheese.
Another reason this dish is so good is its simplicity and speed. With just a few ingredients and no heavy sauces, it’s light yet incredibly satisfying. The key is using high-quality Pecorino Romano and freshly cracked black pepper for the best taste. Since it comes together in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for when you want a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Spaghetti (or Tonnarelli) – The classic pasta for this dish, holding the sauce well. Substitute: Bucatini or fettuccine for a slightly different texture.
Pecorino Romano (Grated Fine) – A salty, tangy cheese that melts into the sauce. Substitute: Parmesan, though it has a milder flavor.
Black Pepper (Freshly Cracked) – Adds a bold, spicy kick. Substitute: White pepper for a softer heat.
Pasta Water (Reserved from Cooking) – Helps create a creamy sauce. Substitute: Hot water with a pinch of salt if needed.
Butter (Optional, for Extra Creaminess) – Helps the sauce coat the pasta smoothly. Substitute: Olive oil for a lighter version.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for the best melting texture.
- Toast the black pepper in a pan to enhance its flavor.
- Reserve plenty of pasta water—it’s key to making a creamy sauce.
- Stir quickly when mixing the cheese to prevent clumping.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet rich Roman pasta dish made with just a few ingredients. The combination of pecorino cheese, black pepper, and pasta water creates a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully. This dish is all about technique—using the right amount of pasta water and stirring quickly to get the perfect texture. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes.
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a light arugula or mixed greens salad to balance the richness.
- With Garlic Bread: A crispy piece of garlic bread pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- With a Glass of White Wine: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the dish.
Similar Recipes
Cacio e Pepe
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or tonnarelli
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano finely grated
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon butter optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Toast the Pepper: In a large pan, toast the black pepper over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Pasta Water: Pour about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water into the pan with the pepper.
- Mix in Cheese: Reduce heat to low, add the pasta, and slowly mix in the grated Pecorino Romano, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate immediately and top with extra Pecorino and black pepper.
Nutrition
Notes
• Toast the black pepper in a pan to enhance its flavor.
• Reserve plenty of pasta water—it’s key to making a creamy sauce.
• Stir quickly when mixing the cheese to prevent clumping.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
So easy to make and rich in flavor.