Cacio e Pepe, a simple yet indulgent Roman pasta dish, is the perfect solution when you're in need of a quick and satisfying meal.

With just four core ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to whip up something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

What is Cacio e Pepe?

Cacio e Pepe, pronounced "ca-cho ee pepe," translates to "cheese and pepper" in Italian. The dish is a staple in Roman cuisine and is known for its minimalistic yet flavorful approach. The combination of pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and butter creates a smooth, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Though the classic version uses spaghetti, variations often incorporate different pasta types like bucatini, which is slightly thicker and hollow, allowing the sauce to cling even better.

Easy Cacio e Pepe Recipe

Video by Preppy Kitchen

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this delicious Cacio e Pepe dish, you'll need just a few key ingredients:

Pecorino Romano: This sharp, nutty sheep's milk cheese is essential for authentic Cacio e Pepe. A fine microplane grater works best to ensure that the cheese melts evenly into the pasta.

Pasta: While spaghetti is the classic choice, we recommend bucatini. This tube-shaped pasta works wonderfully to hold the sauce.

Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is essential for the signature spice that defines this dish.

Butter: Adds richness and helps the sauce come together smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, usually a few minutes shorter than the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Create the Sauce: In a skillet (or back in the saucepan you used to cook the pasta), melt butter over medium heat. Add the pasta back into the saucepan and pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.

Add the Cheese and Pepper: Gradually add grated Pecorino Romano and freshly cracked black pepper to the pasta. Continue tossing until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add more pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Serve: Top with extra grated cheese and freshly cracked pepper, then serve immediately.

Variations to Try

While the traditional version of Cacio e Pepe is simple and delicious, there are a few easy variations you can try:

Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

Protein Addition: Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crispy pancetta for a heartier meal.

Vegetarian Twist: Boost the dish's nutritional value by adding sautéed vegetables like peas or broccoli.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some extra heat.

Texture Variation: Top your pasta with butter-toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Success

One of the challenges with Cacio e Pepe is ensuring that the cheese doesn't clump when it's added to the hot pasta. The key is to use warm pasta water. The starch in the water helps the cheese melt evenly and creates a silky sauce that coats each strand of pasta. Be sure to toss the pasta thoroughly to avoid clumps and achieve a creamy texture.

What to Serve with Cacio e Pepe

This rich pasta dish pairs well with lighter, refreshing sides. Try serving it with leafy greens tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted root vegetables. For an extra burst of flavor, consider a simple Grilled Avocado Salad or Balsamic Grilled Baby Carrots.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Although leftovers are rare with this delicious dish, if you do have some, here's how to reheat them:

Stovetop: Place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water over medium-low heat. Stir gently and heat until warmed through.

Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, adding a bit of water. Heat for 45 seconds, stir, then microwave for another minute or until fully heated. Avoid overheating to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Cacio e Pepe is the perfect pasta dish for when you're short on time but still crave something rich and comforting. With only four main ingredients, it's easy to prepare and customize to suit your preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this pasta will quickly become a weeknight favorite.