Get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most decadent pasta dish known to man: Cacio e Pepe. This Italian classic has been a staple for generations, and its simplicity is what makes it so beloved. A rich, buttery sauce coats al dente spaghetti, all thanks to a generous helping of Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. But why settle for just the original when you can put your own spin on this timeless recipe? From adding a pinch of truffle magic to incorporating bold flavors like spicy Calabrian chilies or bright citrus notes, we’re shaking things up with 20 creamy Cacio e Pepe recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. So go ahead, get creative, and discover the countless ways you can elevate this comfort food classic into a truly unforgettable meal.
Classic Cacio e Pepe with Homemade Pasta
Experience the richness of Italy’s comfort food with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines homemade pasta, creamy Pecorino cheese, and a hint of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– Salt, to taste
– 8 oz Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Make the pasta: Combine flour and egg in a mixing bowl. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes. Let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the pasta: Roll out the dough to a thin sheet. Cut into long noodles or use a pasta machine. Boil in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then drain.
3. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add Pecorino cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
4. Combine pasta and cheese: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Toss until well coated with cheese and pepper.
5. Serve immediately: Season with additional black pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle-Infused Cacio e Pepe
Elevate a classic Italian dish with the luxurious flavor of truffles! This Truffle-Infused Cacio e Pepe recipe combines rich, creamy pasta with the earthy essence of black truffles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded preferred)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tsp black truffle oil (or shaved black truffles, if using)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add truffle oil (or shaved truffles) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked spaghetti with the truffle-infused sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Risotto
This creamy, cheesy risotto is a staple of Italian cuisine, and for good reason. Rich Parmesan cheese and a hint of black pepper elevate the humble Arborio rice to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
4. When the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Cacio e Pepe with Calabrian Chilies
Spicy Cacio e Pepe with Calabrian Chilies: A Twist on the Classic Italian Dish
This recipe adds a spicy kick to the traditional cacio e pepe, incorporating Calabrian chilies for an extra layer of flavor. The result is a creamy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili flakes
– 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the Calabrian chili flakes and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti and cheese sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Arancini
These crispy arancini are filled with a rich and creamy Cacio e Pepe mixture, perfect for a satisfying snack or appetizer. This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, combining tender rice balls with a decadent cheese and pepper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Cacio e Pepe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, and Cacio e Pepe sauce.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls and roll each ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the arancini in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Cacio e Pepe
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent twist on the classic Italian dish. This creamy, aromatic recipe combines the perfect balance of garlic butter, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the cheese mixture, whisking until well combined.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti and cheese sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Pizza with Crispy Crust
Elevate your pizza game with this Italian-inspired delight, featuring a crispy crust and creamy Cacio e Pepe sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
3. Brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface.
4. Sprinkle black pepper in small amounts, followed by a pinch of salt.
5. Roll out the Cacio e Pepe sauce (see below) and spread it evenly over the pizza, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
Cacio e Pepe Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp whole milk and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi
Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi: A Creamy Italian Delight
This classic Italian recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi with the richness of Cacio e Pepe sauce, creating a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded preferred)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
4. Add flour and black pepper to the sauce, whisking until well combined.
5. Drain cooked gnocchi and toss with Cacio e Pepe sauce until coated evenly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Cacio e Pepe
This creamy pasta dish gets a burst of citrus flavor from the addition of lemon zest, adding a refreshing spin to the traditional Italian comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Zest of 1 lemon, finely chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove sauce from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in lemon zest.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent Cacio e Pepe Stuffed Mushrooms, featuring the rich flavors of Italy. This recipe combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the creaminess of pasta and cheese for a truly unforgettable experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushroom caps and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese, flour, and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the Cacio e Pepe mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the filling is golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Pasta Salad
This classic Italian-inspired salad gets a refreshing twist by turning the beloved pasta dish into a light and creamy side or main course. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp. black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta al dente, then set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta, black pepper, and salt; toss until well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh herbs (if using).
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking pasta) + chilling time
Cacio e Pepe Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food with an Italian twist, this creamy mac and cheese is elevated by the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Focaccia
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet decadent focaccia recipe, infused with the classic combination of cacio (Parmesan) and pepe (black pepper).
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour; knead for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper; bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cacio e Pepe with Pancetta and Peas
This classic Italian dish gets a boost from crispy pancetta and sweet peas, elevating the creamy sauce to new heights. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and comforting Cacio e Pepe that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh peas (about 1 cup), shelled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan with slotted spoon.
3. Add butter to the same pan and whisk in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in cooked spaghetti, pancetta, salt, and pepper.
6. Add sliced peas to the pasta and toss until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Carbonara Fusion
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cacio e Pepe with the creamy, indulgent spirit of Carbonara. The result is a decadent yet surprisingly simple dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled Pecorino Romano cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add Pecorino Romano cheese and whisk until combined.
4. Crack in eggs and whisk constantly until sauce is creamy and cooked through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Polenta
Rich and comforting, this Cacio e Pepe Polenta combines the creamiest polenta with a flavorful cheese and pepper sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
3. Stir the black pepper into the cheese sauce.
4. Fold the cheese sauce into the cooked polenta. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgently simple recipe that combines the rich flavors of Italy’s classic cacio e pepe pasta dish with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or similar)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the bread, followed by mozzarella cheese.
5. Add a pinch of black pepper and salt to taste.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Cacio e Pepe with Roasted Garlic
This beloved pasta dish gets a rich and savory boost from the addition of roasted garlic, elevating it to new heights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this comforting favorite at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti with the garlic-infused sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this rich and comforting recipe that combines the flavors of Italy’s cacio e pepe with the classic comfort food, scalloped potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle over potatoes.
5. Dot top with butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Deviled Eggs
Take your deviled eggs to the next level by incorporating the rich flavors of Italy. These Cacio e Pepe Deviled Eggs combine creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of peppery spice.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle the tops with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as deviled eggs are a cold dish.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these creamy Cacio e Pepe recipes! This classic Italian dish gets a twist with 20 creative variations, from homemade pasta and truffle-infused twists to risotto, pizza, and even mac and cheese. Add some spice with Calabrian chilies or go savory with pancetta and peas. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s a Cacio e Pepe recipe here that’s sure to satisfy.
