Description
Cacio e Pepe is a traditional Roman pasta dish known for its simplicity and rich flavors. Featuring just a few key ingredients—black pepper, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a touch of butter—this recipe creates a creamy, glossy sauce that perfectly coats bucatini pasta. Easy to prepare in under 20 minutes, it is a perfect quick meal that delights with its classic Italian taste.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces bucatini pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground coarse black pepper, plus more for serving
- 2 ounces finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (about 1 cup), plus more for serving
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bucatini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Pepper Butter: While the pasta cooks, heat a large 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring gently until the butter is melted and infused with pepper. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent burning.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is just al dente, use tongs to transfer it directly from the boiling water to the skillet with the butter and pepper mixture. Reserve about ⅓ cup of the starchy pasta water to add to the pan.
- Create the Sauce: Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and toss well to combine. Begin tossing in half of the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, mixing until it starts to coat the pasta. Add the remaining cheese and continue tossing vigorously to form a smooth, glossy sauce that evenly coats each strand of pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a few more tablespoons of pasta water to loosen it and achieve a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates immediately. Top with additional freshly ground black pepper and extra Pecorino Romano cheese to taste. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture is essential for the right balance in this dish.
- The reserved pasta water is key to creating a creamy, cohesive sauce; add gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Adjust black pepper quantity according to taste for more or less spiciness.
- A nonstick skillet helps prevent the sauce from sticking and burning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian