Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a delightful and straightforward pasta dish, requiring only four core ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of preparation. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is both satisfying and packed with flavor, making it an easy favorite for the whole family.
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.