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Creamy Cacio e Pepe Recipe Easy Authentic Roman Pasta to Make at Home

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An easy and authentic Roman pasta recipe featuring a creamy, peppery sauce made from Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, emulsified with pasta water for a silky texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or tonarelli pasta
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper, plus extra for serving
  • Salt for pasta water (preferably coarse sea salt)
  • Water for boiling pasta and making the sauce

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti and cook until just shy of al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
  2. Before draining, scoop out about 1 ½ cups (350 ml) of the starchy pasta water and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
  4. Drain pasta quickly and transfer it directly to the skillet with toasted pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  5. Gradually add reserved pasta water to the skillet, about ½ cup (120 ml) at a time, tossing the pasta to combine.
  6. Remove skillet from heat to avoid clumping. Slowly sprinkle 1 ½ cups (150 g) finely grated Pecorino Romano over the pasta while tossing vigorously with tongs or a fork. Add more pasta water as needed to create a creamy, silky sauce.
  7. If sauce feels too thick or clumpy, add a splash more reserved pasta water and keep tossing until smooth.
  8. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Finish with an extra crack of black pepper on top.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino and cracked black pepper.

Notes

Use finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese for a smooth sauce. Toast freshly cracked black pepper to release oils and deepen flavor. Mix cheese off heat to prevent clumping. Work quickly to toss pasta and cheese before pasta cools. Adjust salt carefully as Pecorino is naturally salty. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Variations include adding garlic, herbs, or making a vegan version with nut-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cacio e pepe, creamy pasta, Roman pasta, Pecorino Romano, black pepper pasta, easy pasta recipe, authentic Italian, quick dinner

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