Quick and Easy Cacio e Pepe: Classic Italian Pasta in 20 Minutes

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe

This spaghetti cacio e pepe recipe is made with cheese, olive oil, pepper, and garlic for a delicious side or simple dinner that’s made in 20 minutes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes |
Cook Time: 15 minutes |
Total Time: 20 minutes |
Servings: 4 servings |
Rating: 4.6 (322 reviews)

Why You’ll Love This Cacio e Pepe Pasta

A quick, vibrant dish rooted in Roman tradition, cacio e pepe marries al dente spaghetti with nutty Pecorino Romano, freshly ground black pepper, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout side dish, it’s a true Italian classic ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients for Authentic Cacio e Pepe

• 1 pound spaghetti
• ½ cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and black pepper, sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add ⅓ cup reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to create a peppery broth.
4. Transfer drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss vigorously off heat, gradually adding grated cheeses and remaining pasta water as needed to form a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the noodles.
5. Season with salt and extra black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of Pecorino and cracked pepper.

Tips for Perfect Cacio e Pepe

• Cheese Quality: Freshly grated Pecorino and Parmesan ensure a silky, lump-free sauce.
• Temperature Control: Remove the pan from heat before adding cheese to avoid clumping.
• Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce—reserve at least 1 cup.
• Work Quickly: Combine pasta and sauce off heat for the creamiest result.

Buon appetito! Experiment with a twist of lemon zest or a dash of red pepper flakes to customize your cacio e pepe.