Cacio e Pepe – Clara quick dinners

Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that’s all about simplicity and bold flavor. Translating to “cheese and pepper,” it uses just a few ingredients—pasta, Pecorino Romano, and freshly cracked black pepper—to create a creamy, cheesy, peppery sauce that coats every strand. With no butter or cream, the magic comes from technique, making this dish both humble and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with only 3 main ingredients
• Quick and easy—ready in 20 minutes
• Creamy without any cream
• Packed with bold, peppery flavor
• Comforting yet sophisticated
• Great for weeknights or dinner parties
• Requires minimal prep and cleanup
• A taste of authentic Roman cuisine
• Perfect base for creative add-ins
• Budget-friendly

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti (or tonnarelli, bucatini, or your favorite pasta)
• Pecorino Romano cheese (finely grated)
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Salt (for pasta water)
• Reserved pasta water

directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, toast freshly cracked black pepper in a large skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add a small amount of reserved hot pasta water to the skillet to form the base of the sauce.
4. Reduce heat to low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the pepper-infused water.
5. Gradually sprinkle in finely grated Pecorino Romano, tossing continuously and adding more pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Keep tossing until the cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta.
7. Serve immediately with extra cheese and pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Butter: While not traditional, a touch of butter can make the sauce extra rich.
• Use Parmesan: Substitute or mix with Pecorino Romano for a milder flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a little zest for brightness.
• Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of cream for a modern twist.
• Protein Add-On: Top with grilled chicken or pancetta for a heartier meal.
• Different Pasta: Try rigatoni, tagliolini, or even gnocchi for a unique texture.

storage/reheating

Cacio e Pepe is best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Microwaving may cause the cheese to clump, so stovetop reheating is preferred.

FAQs

What does “Cacio e Pepe” mean?

It means “cheese and pepper” in Italian, which are the two main flavoring ingredients of this dish.

What kind of cheese should I use?

Authentic Cacio e Pepe uses Pecorino Romano, a salty, tangy Italian sheep’s milk cheese.

Can I use Parmesan instead?

Yes, but it will result in a milder and less traditional flavor.

Why did my cheese clump?

Clumping often happens if the cheese is added when the pan is too hot or if it’s not finely grated. Stir constantly and use warm, not boiling, pasta water.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure it holds up well to tossing.

Is butter traditional in Cacio e Pepe?

No, traditional Roman recipes do not include butter—just pasta, cheese, pepper, and water.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Tonnarelli is traditional, but spaghetti or bucatini work beautifully as well.

Can I prepare this in advance?

It’s best made fresh, but you can grate the cheese and toast the pepper in advance to save time.

How do I get the sauce creamy without cream?

The creaminess comes from emulsifying the cheese with hot pasta water and tossing it vigorously to combine.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, Cacio e Pepe is naturally vegetarian, as long as the cheese used doesn’t contain animal rennet.

Conclusion

Cacio e Pepe is the ultimate example of how just a few ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. With a creamy, peppery sauce and a deep umami from the Pecorino Romano, it’s comfort food at its most refined. Quick, easy, and endlessly satisfying, it deserves a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

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