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–+ servings
Plate of Spicy Cacio e Pepe pasta garnished with pepper and cheese.
Serine Milo

Spicy Cacio e Pepe

A fiery twist on the classic Cacio e Pepe, combining rich Pecorino Romano cheese with spicy black pepper and creamy butter for a comforting pasta dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
  • Salt to taste Salt (for pasta water)
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese Parmesan works for a milder flavor
  • 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper Adjust to your heat preference
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter option
  • 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes Optional, for extra heat

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes, allowing them to sizzle for about a minute.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the butter and cracked pepper mixture.
  3. Stir well to combine, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
  4. Add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water, mixing until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
  5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water; if too thin, let it simmer briefly.
Plating
  1. Plate the pasta and sprinkle additional cheese and black pepper on top if desired.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spicy Cacio e Pepe!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

For a twist, add sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccolini for more texture and nutrients. To lighten the dish, switch butter for olive oil and add lemon juice.

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