---
title: Authentic Cacio e Pepe Recipe
servings: 2
category: dinner
description: "A cacio e pepe is so simple, the whole recipe is 3 ingredients: pecorino romano, black pepper and pasta."
source: https://pinabresciani.com/authentic-cacio-e-pepe-recipe/
tags:
  - vegetarian
  - italian
  - pasta
image: https://roux.roo.lol/recipe-images/authentic-cacio-e-pepe-recipe.webp
---

In a #pot, bring @water{} to a boil. Lightly salt the water when it comes to a boil.

Finely grate the @pecorino romano{2.5%cups}.

With a mortar and pestle, grind @whole black peppercorns{1/2%tbsp} to a fine consistency. Set ~{1.5%tsp} of the ground pepper aside for toasting.

Add the @spaghetti{250%g} to the boiling water and cook for half the package time.

While the pasta cooks, heat a #stainless steel #pan over medium heat. Add the reserved ~{1.5%tsp} ground @black pepper{} and toast for up to ~{1%minute}, then add a ladle of @pasta water{} to the pan.

When pasta is al dente, remove from heat and add the pasta to the pan. Over medium heat, finish cooking the pasta in the pan, adding @pasta water{} as needed to create a bit of starchy liquid.

Add a small amount of hot pasta water to the grated pecorino and mix into a paste. When the pasta is ready, wait ~{30%seconds}, then stir the pecorino paste into the pan quickly with tongs to form a creamy sauce.

Plate and spoon the creamy sauce on top. Add more fresh @black pepper{} to taste.