5-Minute Cacio e Pepe Recipe
This 5-Minute Cacio e Pepe Recipe is a quick version of the classic Roman pasta made with angel hair, Pecorino cheese, and black pepper. Simple, creamy, and ready in minutes.
Method
- Boil water in kettle (faster). Pour into pot, salt, add pasta. Cook 3 mins.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a large pan with pepper, toast pepper for 1 min.
- Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup water.
- Add wet pasta and water to the butter/pepper pan.
- Remove from heat. Vigorously mix in cheese until creamy sauce forms.
This 5-Minute Cacio e Pepe Recipe is a quick version of Rome’s famous “cheese and pepper” pasta that delivers bold, authentic flavor with just a few simple ingredients. Made with delicate angel hair pasta, freshly cracked black pepper, and finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, this classic Italian dish comes together in minutes while still tasting rich and restaurant-quality.
Angel hair pasta cooks extremely quickly, making it perfect for creating a fast version of this traditional Roman favorite. The hot pasta water helps melt the cheese into a silky, creamy sauce that coats every strand perfectly. Ready in just five minutes, this easy Cacio e Pepe recipe proves that simple ingredients can create one of the most satisfying Italian comfort foods.
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 410 kcal
- Protein
- 14 g
- Carbs
- 48 g
- Fat
- 16 g
- Fibre
- 2 g
- Sugar
- 1 g
- Sodium
- 580 mg
Values are estimates based on USDA FoodData Central and vary with brands and portioning.
Chef notes
Grate cheese finely yourself. Pre-grated contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting.
Substitutions
- Angel Hair: Fresh pasta (cooks fast) — Pecorino: Parmesan (different flavor but works)
Serving suggestions
Serve with a side arugula salad.
Storage
Best fresh. Sauce can separate when reheated.
Reheating
Add water and heat gently in pan.
Equipment
- Pot
- Large Skillet
- Tongs
Variations
- Lemon: Add lemon zest
- Truffle: Add drizzle of truffle oil
Why it works
The starch in pasta water emulsifies with cheese and fat to create a cream sauce without cream.
Frequently asked questions
My cheese clumped!
Water wasn't hot enough or added cheese over high flame. Remove from heat first.
Gluten free?
Use GF pasta.
Tags
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