Chrissy Teigen Cacio E Pepe Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you’ve ever craved a simple yet indulgently flavorful pasta dish, Chrissy Teigen’s cacio e pepe recipe is a must-try. This classic Roman dish translates to “cheese and pepper,” and it embodies the essence of Italian cooking: minimal ingredients, maximum taste.

Chrissy’s version is a perfect balance of creamy, peppery, and cheesy goodness that comes together quickly, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is approachable and incredibly satisfying.

What makes Chrissy’s cacio e pepe stand out is her emphasis on technique and ingredient quality. Using freshly cracked black pepper and Pecorino Romano cheese, combined with perfectly al dente pasta, you get a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Plus, with just a handful of pantry staples, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Ready to elevate your pasta game?

Let’s dive into how to make this timeless dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the epitome of simplicity done right. With only a few ingredients, you can create a dish bursting with rich, creamy flavor and a spicy pepper kick.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine but want a recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Chrissy Teigen’s cacio e pepe is also versatile. It can be served as a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a sophisticated starter.

The creamy sauce clings beautifully to every strand of spaghetti, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free with the right pasta choice.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
• Salt (for pasta water)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Cheese grater
• Measuring spoons
• Colander to drain pasta

Instructions

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Toast the black pepper: While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute to release its aroma and flavor. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add butter and pasta water: To the toasted pepper, add the unsalted butter and about half of the reserved pasta water. Stir to create a peppery, buttery broth.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat the spaghetti in the pepper and butter mixture.
5. Add cheese gradually: Remove the skillet from heat. Slowly sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese while continuously tossing or stirring. Add more pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thick.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and add a pinch of salt if necessary. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of black pepper and Pecorino on top for garnish.

Tips & Variations

“The secret to a perfect cacio e pepe is patience when mixing the cheese with the pasta water — it prevents clumping and creates a silky sauce.”

• Use freshly cracked black pepper: Pre-ground pepper won’t give you the same vibrant flavor and aroma.
• Grate cheese finely: This helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Al dente texture is key for the sauce to cling properly.
• Butter makes it creamy: If you want a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil, but the texture will be less creamy.
• Add heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes along with the black pepper.
• Try different pasta shapes: Bucatini or tonnarelli are traditional choices, but spaghetti works beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cacio e pepe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter, making each bite refreshing.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the peppery notes beautifully.

If you’re preparing this dish for guests, consider starting with a light antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and crusty bread to complete the Italian dining experience.

Conclusion

Chrissy Teigen’s cacio e pepe recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. With just cheese, pepper, butter, and pasta, you can bring the flavors of Rome right to your kitchen.

Its quick preparation and approachable technique make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

This recipe also encourages you to savor the beauty of minimalism in cooking, where quality ingredients and timing are everything. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this creamy, pepper-forward pasta will surely impress and satisfy.

Ready to try more easy yet delicious pasta dishes? Check out our Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta, Classic Spaghetti Carbonara, and Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta recipes for more inspiration!

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