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Creamy 5-Ingredient Roman Cacio e Pepe Pasta

Creamy 5-Ingredient Roman Cacio e Pepe Pasta - featured image
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A quick and easy Roman pasta recipe featuring a creamy, peppery sauce made with just five simple ingredients: spaghetti, Pecorino Romano, black pepper, butter, and pasta water.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons (about 42 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts or 3.8 liters of water with 1 tablespoon salt). Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente, about 8 minutes or according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until aromatic but not burnt.
  3. Add the butter to the toasted pepper and stir until melted, creating a rich base for the sauce.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the butter and pepper mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Keep the pan on low heat to avoid overheating the cheese.
  5. Gradually stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, tossing the pasta constantly. Slowly add reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Add more pasta water in small amounts if the sauce is too thick or clumpy.
  6. Adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired and serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Pecorino Romano on top.

Notes

Use starchy pasta water to emulsify the sauce and prevent clumping. Grate cheese finely and fresh for best texture. Toast black pepper to release its aroma. Toss pasta gently off or on very low heat to avoid grainy sauce. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter and plant-based cheese but flavor will differ.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cacio e Pepe, Roman pasta, creamy pasta, easy pasta recipe, 5-ingredient pasta, Pecorino Romano, black pepper pasta

Find it online: https://snappyspoon.com/creamy-5-ingredient-roman-cacio-e-pepe-pasta-recipe-easy-and-perfect/