We absolutely adore this Cacio e Pepe Recipe for its incredible simplicity with just 5 essential ingredients! Plus, it’s a speedy option, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknight dinners. This dish is the epitome of indulgence, bursting with rich Flavors.
Lately, I’ve been gravitating towards straightforward pasta dishes, and this Cacio e Pepe Recipe tops my list. There’s something magical about this pasta—the uncomplicated nature, the minimal ingredient list, its mouthwatering taste, and how swiftly it all comes together! I guarantee you’ll fall head over heels for this no-fuss, delectable, and lightning-fast recipe, perfect for your next weeknight dinner! This recipe brings the heart of Italy to your table in under 20 minutes.
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What exactly is Cacio e Pepe?
Cacio e Pepe (pronounced ca-cho ee pepe) is a classic Roman pasta delight that directly translates to “cheese and pepper.” This uncomplicated dish features spaghetti, a generous sprinkling of black pepper, and the distinctive Pecorino Romano cheese. In our version, we also add a touch of butter to elevate the Flavors even more!
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Recipe Video:
How to make cacio e pepe?
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (about 225g) of spaghetti or tonnarelli
- 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt (for cooking the pasta)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Fill a large pot partly with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. To the water, add a good amount of salt.
- Cook the spaghetti or tonnarelli according to package instructions until it’s just shy of al dente.
- Save around 1 cup of the water you used to cook the pasta, then go ahead and drain the pasta.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, combine the finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 3: Toss It Together
- In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Pour in a bit of the pasta cooking water you set aside earlier to achieve a smooth and silky sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it with the olive oil and pasta water mixture.
Step 4: Add Cheese pasta Magic
- Turn off the heat under the skillet.
- Quickly sprinkle the Pecorino Romano and black pepper mixture over the pasta.
- Toss vigorously to combine, adding more pasta cooking water if needed to create a creamy, glossy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
- Plate your Cacio e Pepe immediately.
- If desired, add an extra sprinkle of Pecorino Romano and black pepper on top for an extra burst of flavour.
Why You’ll Love Cacio e Pepe
- Roman Simplicity: Cacio e Pepe embodies Italian simplicity with a handful of high-quality ingredients.
- Creamy Elegance: The combination of Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti.
- Quick and Satisfying: Whip up this Roman classic in under 20 minutes, perfect for a weeknight indulgence.
- Pure Comfort: It’s comfort food at its finest, offering a taste of Italy’s culinary heritage.
Prepare to be transported to the heart of Rome with every delightful bite of this timeless pasta dish!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 1 plate |
| Calories | Approximately 650 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 62g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 3g |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Health Benefits:
- Protein Power: This dish provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Carb Energy: The carbohydrates in pasta are a great source of energy, keeping you fuelled throughout the day.
- Dietary Fiber: With some dietary fibre, this meal supports healthy digestion.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in the recipe provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
- Calcium Boost: Pecorino Romano cheese is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Protein and Pepper Punch: Black pepper not only adds flavour but also contains a compound called pipeline, which may enhance the absorption of nutrients in your body.
- Sodium Control: You can manage your sodium intake by adjusting the amount of added salt to suit your dietary needs.
- Italian Simplicity: This recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine—simple, delicious, and satisfying.
Enjoy your Cacio e Pepe, a delightful Italian classic that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits!
Storage Instructions:
- Cool It Down: Allow the cooked Cacio e Pepe to cool down to room temperature before attempting to store it.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup.
- Refrigeration: Place the sealed container in the refrigerator. Cacio e Pepe can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Avoid Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze Cacio e Pepe as the creamy sauce and cheese may not retain their original texture when thawed.
Reheating Instructions:
- Remove from the Fridge: Take the container out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
- Heat Gently: In a skillet or non-stick pan, reheat the Cacio e Pepe over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or milk to help revive the creamy consistency. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Taste and Adjust: While reheating, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to sprinkle a little extra Pecorino Romano and black pepper for added flavour.
- Serve Hot: Plate your reheated Cacio e Pepe immediately and enjoy the comforting Flavors once again!
Variations on Cacio e Pepe
- Instead of Pecorino Romano, which is a robust and nutty Italian sheep’s milk cheese, you can opt for Parmigiano-Reggiano if it’s more accessible or to your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, simply switch out regular pasta with your favourite gluten-free pasta brand.
- To ramp up the protein content, consider adding sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken to the pasta.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can still make it heartier by incorporating vegetables like steamed peas or sautéed broccoli.
- For a spicy kick, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes will do the trick.
- To add a delightful crunch, try topping your dish with butter-toasted breadcrumbs.
Cacio e Pepe Success Tips and Tricks
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, and we’re sure that anyone can master it with ease! One common challenge some folks encounter is the cheese clumping when they mix it with the pasta. The solution? Warm pasta water! Adding a bit of this starchy water works like magic to create a creamy, saucy texture that beautifully coats the pasta, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.
How to Serve Our Cacio e Pepe Recipe
To complement the rich simplicity of this cacio e pepe recipe, we recommend serving it alongside some fresh leafy greens drizzled with a light dressing. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with easy-to-make Roasted Root Vegetables, our delightful Grilled Avocado Salad, and some flavourful Balsamic Grilled Baby Carrots. These side dishes will complete your meal and provide a balanced and satisfying dining experience.