If you love a pasta dish that feels fancy but takes minutes, cacio e pepe is the answer. It’s just cheese, pepper, butter and spaghetti, yet the flavor hits the spot every time. Below you’ll get the exact ingredients, a step‑by‑step method, and a few tweaks to keep it fresh.
Grab these basics. You don’t need a long shopping list:
All of these items are easy to find at any grocery store. If you can’t get Pecorino, a sharp Parmesan works, but the taste will be milder.
1. **Boil the pasta** – Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Drop the spaghetti in and cook until just under al dente (about 1 minute less than the package says). Save 1 cup of the starchy cooking water before you drain.
2. **Toast the pepper** – While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pepper and stir for 30 seconds until it smells toasty. This releases the pepper’s oils and deepens the flavor.
3. **Create the sauce base** – Add the butter to the skillet and melt it with the pepper. As it bubbles, pour in about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir, and you’ll see a smooth, slightly frothy liquid form.
4. **Combine pasta and sauce** – Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet. Keep the heat low and stir constantly. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pasta while you stir, adding more pasta water a little at a time. The cheese and water create a creamy emulsion that clings to each strand.
5. **Finish and serve** – Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and looks glossy. Taste and add a pinch more cheese or pepper if you like. Serve right away, with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top.
That’s it – a classic dish ready in under 20 minutes. The secret is the cheese‑water emulsion; if it looks grainy, add more water and keep the skillet moving.
Quick twists: Want a little extra? Toss in a handful of peas, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Each addition keeps the core flavor but adds a fresh twist.
Enjoy your cacio e pepe with a simple salad or a glass of crisp white wine. It’s the perfect go‑to when you’re hungry and want something authentic without the fuss.
