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Quick Creamy Cacio e Pepe Pasta Recipe 15-Minute Easy Dinner

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A quick and creamy cacio e pepe pasta recipe ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and indulgent meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti
  • 1 cup (100 g) finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt (for pasta water)
  • About 1 cup (240 ml) reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta cooking water and set aside.
  4. Drain the spaghetti but do not rinse.
  5. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, swirling to combine with the toasted pepper.
  7. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the finely grated Pecorino Romano over the pasta.
  8. Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly with tongs or a spoon until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Add more pasta water if the sauce is too thick or clumpy.
  9. Taste and add more black pepper if desired. Serve immediately on warmed plates.

Notes

Be gentle with the heat after adding the cheese to avoid clumping. Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for best melting and flavor. Add pasta water slowly to emulsify the sauce smoothly. Toasting the pepper enhances flavor. Serve immediately on warmed plates for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cacio e pepe, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, pecorino romano, black pepper pasta, 15-minute meal

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/quick-creamy-cacio-e-pepe-pasta-recipe-15-minute-easy-dinner/