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Cacio e Pepe

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic cacio e pepe is a masterclass in Italian simplicity, relying on just a few high-quality pantry staples to create a luxuriously creamy finish. Traditionally hailing from Rome, the dish celebrates the sharp, salty notes of Pecorino Romano and the warmth of freshly toasted black pepper. By emulsifying the starchy pasta water with fine cheeses and butter, you create a silky, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to every strand without the need for heavy cream.

As a satisfying vegetarian main, this recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want a sophisticated meal with minimal preparation. The combination of Grana Padano and Pecorino provides a complex depth of flavour that pairs beautifully with long pasta shapes like bucatini or spaghetti. Serve it immediately in warmed bowls to ensure the sauce stays perfectly smooth and indulgent.

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Ingredients for Cacio e Pepe

  • Kosher salt

  • 170g pasta (such as egg tagliolini, bucatini, or spaghetti)

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed, divided

  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

  • 110g finely grated Grana Padano or Parmesan

  • 50g finely grated Pecorino

How to make Cacio e Pepe

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Bring 2.8L water to a boil in a 4.7L pot. Season with salt; add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until about 2 minutes before tender. Drain, reserving 180ml pasta cooking water.

Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add pepper and cook, swirling pan, until toasted, about 1 minute.

Add 120ml reserved pasta water to skillet and bring to a simmer. Add pasta and remaining butter. Reduce heat to low and add Grana Padano, stirring and tossing with tongs until melted. Remove pan from heat; add Pecorino, stirring and tossing until cheese melts, sauce coats the pasta, and pasta is al dente. (Add more pasta water if sauce seems dry.) Transfer pasta to warm bowls and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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