Print

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 6 reviews

This classic Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe recipe is a simple yet flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring a creamy, cheesy sauce made from Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper. With just a few pantry staples, this dish can be prepared in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal that still feels special and restaurant-quality.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 1 ¾ cups grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. Toast the Black Pepper: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ground black pepper, toasting gently to release the pepper’s aroma, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and pepper oil. Toss to coat evenly over low heat.
  4. Add Cheese and Finish Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and gradually sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese while stirring vigorously. Add reserved pasta water in small increments to create a creamy, smooth sauce that clings to each strand of pasta.
  5. Serve Immediately: Once the sauce has emulsified and reached a creamy consistency, serve the pasta hot, optionally garnished with additional Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper.

Notes

  • Use fresh finely grated Pecorino Romano for the best melting and flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully to help create the creamy sauce without it becoming watery.
  • Toast the black pepper gently to avoid bitterness.
  • This recipe is best served immediately for optimal creaminess.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper to taste for desired spice level.
  • Using high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor dramatically.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/spaghetti-cacio-e-pepe-recipe/