Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet indulgent pasta dish that delivers rich flavor with minimal ingredients. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that feels both comforting and gourmet.
With only four essential ingredients—spaghetti, butter, pepper, and Parmesan—this dish proves that less is more when it comes to creating something truly special. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
The magic lies in the creamy, peppery sauce that coats each strand of pasta, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, Cacio e Pepe is sure to impress.
Cacio e Pepe Ingredients
At the heart of Cacio e Pepe lies simple, yet powerful ingredients that elevate this dish. The rich, creamy butter provides a luxurious base, while coarsely ground black pepper brings a bold, aromatic kick.
The salty, nutty Parmesan melts into a velvety sauce, binding everything together with depth and flavor. And, of course, the dry spaghetti forms the perfect canvas for these ingredients to shine, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Cacio e Pepe Recipe Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To get the perfect texture, cook your spaghetti just shy of al dente, about two minutes less than the package directions. This ensures the pasta absorbs the sauce better, creating a creamy, flavorful finish.
- Use Freshly Ground Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper packs more flavor than pre-ground. Coarse ground pepper is ideal for this recipe as it adds a nice texture and more intense flavor, making each bite a little bit more exciting.
- Reserve More Pasta Water: While the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of pasta water, always reserve a little extra just in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency. The starchy pasta water helps the sauce come together smoothly, ensuring a velvety texture.
What to Serve with Cacio e Pepe
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich, creamy Cacio e Pepe. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the richness of the dish, providing balance and contrast.
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm, toasted garlic bread is a perfect pairing with this pasta. The buttery, garlicky crunch offers a delightful contrast to the smooth, peppery sauce, making it a satisfying addition to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes add a touch of freshness and natural sweetness that enhances the flavors of Cacio e Pepe. They’re a great way to include some extra nutrients and color to your plate.
FAQ About Cacio e Pepe
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While traditional Cacio e Pepe uses spaghetti, feel free to use other types of pasta like fettuccine, bucatini, or even rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
2. Can I make this recipe without butter?
Butter is a key ingredient for achieving the creamy texture in this dish, but you can substitute it with olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter alternative. The flavor may change slightly, but the result will still be delicious.
3. Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan is essential for its nutty flavor and texture, but if you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be used as an alternative. It’s saltier and tangier, so adjust accordingly to your taste preferences.
4. How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but to make it more robust, you can add sautéed mushrooms or a handful of spinach for extra flavor and texture. These additions pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Cacio e Pepe
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus additional for garnish
- 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper plus extra for garnish
- 4 Tbsp salted butter divided
- 1/2 lb dry spaghetti
- 3/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large skillet, bring 6 cups of water and 3/4 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Once boiling, add the dry spaghetti and cook it for two minutes less than the time indicated on the package.
- Before draining the spaghetti, reserve a cup of the pasta water. After draining, place the spaghetti in a bowl and keep it warm by setting it close to the stove.
- In the same skillet used for cooking the pasta, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, adding the black pepper. Sauté the mixture until fragrant.
- Pour 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water into the skillet, stirring to create a glossy sauce.
- Lower the heat and add the spaghetti to the skillet, followed by the grated Parmesan and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Using tongs, swiftly toss the spaghetti, butter, Parmesan, and pepper together, mixing until a creamy sauce forms. Serve immediately and garnish with additional pepper and Parmesan cheese as desired.
