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A white bowl filled with bucatini pasta and creamy black pepper sauce on a blue background.
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5 from 5 votes

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

All you need to make creamy, velvety bucatini cacio e pepe is five simple ingredients; pecorino and parmesan cheese, butter, freshly ground black pepper and bucatini pasta.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 2
Calories: 960kcal

Ingredients

  • 10 oz bucatini
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 3/4 c freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 c freshly grated pecorino cheese

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season with salt. Once boiling, add the bucatini and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
  • While the pasta is cooking melt half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cracked black pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasted, about 2 minutes.
  • Add 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Next, add the bucatini and remaining butter. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheese, stirring and tossing with tongs until melted and the sauce coats the pasta, add more pasta water if the sauce seems dry. Divide between bowls, top with extra black pepper, and grated cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ingredients:
  • Bucatini: Substitute spaghetti if needed. 
  • Pecorino and Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese is important for a smooth and creamy sauce. Pre-grated cheese can leave your sauce grainy.
 
Storing and Reheating:
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a few tablespoons of water to loosen up the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 960kcal | Carbohydrates: 108g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 1037mg | Potassium: 384mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1168IU | Calcium: 637mg | Iron: 2mg