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Creamy Roman Cacio e Pepe Pasta

This creamy Roman cacio e pepe pasta is pure comfort in a bowl, featuring a few simple ingredients that create a remarkably delicious meal, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lb spaghetti (bronze-cut if possible) Choose a good quality pasta for better texture.
  • 2 pinches salt For the pasta water.
For the Sauce
  • 5 tbsp olive oil, divided (3 tbsp and 2 tbsp) Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
  • 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper About 30 turns of a pepper mill.
  • 8 oz Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated Plus extra for serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the salt.
  2. Set a saucepan over medium heat and warm 3 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the black pepper and toast it for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook about 3 minutes less than the package instructions.
  4. Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large serving dish and warm it.
  5. Before draining the spaghetti, scoop out 2 cups of pasta water, adding 1 cup to the pepper and oil mixture.
  6. Pour a quarter of the pepper, oil, and water mixture into the serving dish to warm it.
Cooking
  1. Drain the spaghetti directly into the serving dish and add the rest of the pepper mixture. Toss vigorously.
  2. Add half the Pecorino and continue tossing, then add the rest and toss for about 1 more minute until thick and creamy. If too tight, add reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Serving
  1. Spoon the creamy pasta onto plates or into bowls. Finish with extra Pecorino and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

Choose good quality pasta (preferably bronze-cut). Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheat gently with a splash of water.