What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This cacio e pepe recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make with just a few pantry staples.
- Creamy, cheesy goodness—the perfect balance of Pecorino Romano and black pepper creates a rich, velvety sauce.
- Ready in minutes—with minimal ingredients and steps, it’s a lifesaver for busy nights.
- Endlessly customizable—add a twist with a splash of pasta water or extra pepper for more kick.
Recipe
Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that celebrates simplicity with just a few ingredients. Its creamy, peppery flavor makes it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
- 1 ½ cups finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, plus extra for serving
- 2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, reserving 2 cups of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, toast the black pepper over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add 1 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Transfer the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Remove from heat.
- Gradually add the grated Pecorino Romano, tossing constantly and adding more pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese and black pepper on top.
Notes:
Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it may not melt properly.
Equipment:
Large pot, skillet, grater
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 20g |
What To Serve With It
When I serve cacio e pepe, I love pairing it with garlic bread or a light salad for balance. Sometimes I’ll add roasted vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini, for a bit of freshness. If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll even toss in some prosciutto or crispy pancetta for extra flavor.
Pasta Pairing Ideas
There’s nothing like a rich, cheesy plate of cacio e pepe, but sometimes I like to round out the meal with something fresh or crunchy to balance the flavors. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite that complements the pasta perfectly. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach brings a veggie boost, while grilled shrimp or chicken makes it heartier. For crunch, garlic bread or toasted sourdough is a win. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add marinated artichokes or olives for a briny twist. Whatever you choose, keep it light so the cacio e pepe stays the star.
Side Dish Suggestions
While cacio e pepe is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. I love serving it with a crisp arugula salad—just toss the greens with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The peppery bite balances the rich pasta perfectly. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach are great too, adding a fresh, veggie-packed touch. If you’re craving something heartier, garlic bread is a no-brainer. Trust me, tearing into that buttery, golden crust while twirling cheesy pasta is pure joy. Simple sides let the star dish shine!
