Cacio e Pepe: The Quintessential Roman Comfort Food

Authentic Cacio e Pepe Recipe: Four Ingredients, Under 25 Minutes!

Craving a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that won’t break the bank? Look no further than this incredibly easy and creamy Cacio e Pepe recipe. With just four simple ingredients and less than 25 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

A steaming pot of Cacio e Pepe pasta, ready to be served

We all know the feeling. Tax season rolls around, and those daunting forms – W-2s, 1099s, and the dreaded 1040 – start piling up. For many, including myself, it can feel overwhelming. Instead of deciphering complex financial jargon, my mind wanders to more palatable things: KFC, BLTs, M&Ms, California Pizza Kitchen, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!

Close-up of cooked spaghetti in a green pot

Taxes might induce tears, but cooking, and more importantly, enjoying delicious food, should bring joy. The reality of a food-focused career is the constant stream of grocery bills and restaurant tabs. Every April, I face the music, scrutinize those receipts, and vow to cut back next year. And that’s where this Cacio e Pepe pasta comes in – a delicious and affordable solution.

Cacio e Pepe pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper

This recipe represents my first attempt at a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s a simple combination of noodles, butter, cheese, and pepper – the essence of Cacio e Pepe. And let’s be honest, while it might not be the best choice for skinny jeans, it’s definitely a winner for your wallet.

Large pot of Cacio e Pepe pasta with tongs

My sister introduced me to this culinary gem during a memorable dinner at Davanti Enoteca, my favorite Italian restaurant in Chicago. One taste was all it took. Both my palate and my food budget have never looked back. It is truly delicious!

Watch the video below to see me prepare this quick and cost-effective favorite!

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Main Course

Cacio e Pepe Pasta

This quick and easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta recipe requires only four simple ingredients.
Author:
Kelly Senyei















5 from 8 votes
Authentic Cacio e Pepe Pasta Recipe
Prep Time

10
minutes


Cook Time

12
minutes


Total Time

22
minutes