Description
This Easy Bucatini Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that combines the nutty, sharp flavors of Pecorino Romano cheese with the bold bite of freshly cracked black pepper. The creamy sauce is made from simple ingredients, relying on starchy pasta water to bring everything together, making it a perfect quick and elegant meal for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces bucatini pasta
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (for pasta water)
Sauce
- 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Boil Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, adding 1 tablespoon of sea salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
- Cook Bucatini: Add the bucatini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cheese and Pepper Mixture: While the pasta cooks, combine freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl, preparing the base for the signature sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the cooked pasta, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, which will help emulsify the sauce.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Drain the bucatini and immediately toss it with the cheese and pepper mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to each strand of pasta.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning by adding more cheese or pepper if desired. Serve the dish immediately to enjoy its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Be sure to reserve enough pasta water, as it is crucial for achieving the creamy sauce consistency.
- Work quickly when combining the pasta and cheese mixture to prevent the cheese from clumping.
- This dish is best served immediately for optimal creaminess.
- If desired, freshly ground black pepper can be toasted briefly to enhance its aroma before mixing.
