Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a quintessential Roman pasta dish that epitomizes the beauty of simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper, this dish is elevated into a creamy, peppery indulgence.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
• 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
• Salt, for boiling water

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the black pepper for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the drained spaghetti, tossing to coat in the pepper-infused water.
5. Gradually sprinkle in the Pecorino Romano cheese while continuously stirring, adding more pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
6. If using, add the butter for extra creaminess.
7. Continue tossing the pasta until the sauce clings smoothly to the noodles. Serve immediately with extra Pecorino Romano and black pepper on top.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 2 servings
• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 50g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Vitamin A: 8%
• Vitamin C: 0%
• Calcium: 20%
• Iron: 10%

The Origins of Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe has its roots deep in Roman history, where it was considered a traditional dish for shepherds. The shepherds, who spent long hours in the hills of Lazio, would carry simple ingredients with them, such as Pecorino Romano cheese, pepper, and dried pasta. These ingredients were not only practical but also hearty and filling, providing the sustenance needed for a hard day’s work. The pasta was boiled in water, and the cheese and pepper were added to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that was easy to prepare over a campfire or makeshift stove. 

The Simple Ingredients Behind a Flavorful Dish

The brilliance of Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe lies in the use of just a few ingredients. The key players are Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and pasta. These three ingredients form the foundation of the dish, and each plays a crucial role in creating its iconic flavor profile.

• Pecorino Romano Cheese: This sharp, tangy sheep’s milk cheese is the star of the dish. Pecorino Romano is a hard cheese that is aged for several months, giving it a robust, salty flavor that perfectly balances the pepper and the starchy pasta. Its crumbly texture, when finely grated, melts beautifully into the warm pasta, creating a creamy and rich sauce. The quality of the Pecorino Romano is essential for the dish’s success, so it’s worth investing in the best you can find.
• Black Pepper: The pepper in Cacio e Pepe is not just a seasoning—it’s an integral part of the dish’s flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is toasted briefly in a hot skillet to release its essential oils, enhancing its fragrance and adding depth to the dish. The pepper provides a spicy, aromatic kick that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese and brings the entire dish to life. The amount of pepper used can be adjusted based on personal preference, but the balance between cheese and pepper is crucial for achieving the authentic taste.
• Pasta: While Cacio e Pepe can technically be made with any type of pasta, spaghetti is the traditional choice. The long, thin strands of spaghetti allow the sauce to coat every inch, creating a smooth and satisfying texture with each bite. The pasta should be cooked just shy of al dente, ensuring that it maintains its structure and allows the sauce to cling to it perfectly.

The Technique Behind Perfect Cacio e Pepe

Making Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a lesson in technique, and mastering the process is what sets a great version of this dish apart from a mediocre one. The key to success lies in how the cheese and pepper are incorporated into the pasta, creating a creamy, silky sauce without any clumps or separation. The process begins with cooking the pasta in salted water. It’s important to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water, as the starch in the water helps emulsify the sauce later on. Once the pasta is cooked, the pepper is toasted in a hot pan, allowing its natural oils to release and intensify its flavor. The next step is to add some of the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the toasted pepper, creating a peppery base for the sauce. The pasta is then added to the pan, and the magic begins. 

Why Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a Crowd-Pleaser

One of the main reasons Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe has become such a beloved dish is its versatility. It’s a meal that can be served at any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Its simplicity makes it approachable, yet its bold flavors make it sophisticated and satisfying. The dish is also incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, the ingredients used in Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe are widely available and inexpensive, which makes it a great option for those on a budget.

Variations of Cacio e Pepe

While the traditional Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe sticks to the basic ingredients of pasta, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper, there are some variations that allow you to personalize the dish. For example, adding a drizzle of olive oil can give the sauce a slightly richer flavor, while incorporating a small amount of butter can make the sauce even creamier. Some people also like to sprinkle in a little extra Parmesan cheese for added richness, though the addition of other cheeses is not considered traditional. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the amount of black pepper to your liking.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients, when prepared with care and attention to detail, can come together to create something truly spectacular. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors: the sharpness of Pecorino Romano, the heat of freshly ground black pepper, and the creamy texture that envelops the pasta. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity, allowing each ingredient to shine while working together to create an unforgettable meal.