Garlic Chilli Cacio e Pepe

If you’re a pasta lover seeking a simple yet elevated dish, Garlic Chilli Cacio e Pepe is the perfect recipe for you. This modern twist on the classic Roman dish combines the timeless pairing of cheese and pepper with a subtle heat from chili and the aromatic depth of garlic. “Cacio e Pepe,” which translates to “cheese and pepper,” is a deceptively simple dish made with just a handful of ingredients—but the addition of garlic and chili brings a bold, contemporary flair. The result is a creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying pasta that feels indulgent while being quick to prepare. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this dish is a surefire way to impress yourself and others.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You only need pantry staples like pasta, garlic, chili flakes, cheese, and pepper, yet the taste is extraordinary.
• Perfect for Spice Lovers: The chili adds a gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, try different types of pasta, or experiment with additional garnishes for variety.
• Elegant and Comforting: It’s simple enough for a casual dinner but sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (or more to taste)
• 1 ½ cups pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling the pasta)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or bucatini and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Reserve 1 ½ cups of the pasta cooking water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili

In a large skillet or pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and bubbling. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the crushed chili flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Pepper

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the cracked black pepper into the pan. Toasting the pepper brings out its bold, aromatic qualities, creating a more intense flavor profile for the sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Gradually add about 1 cup of the reserved pasta water to the pan, stirring continuously to create a slightly emulsified base. This helps form the foundation of the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the pan from heat and slowly sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. The heat from the pasta water will melt the cheese, forming a smooth, glossy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing it gently with tongs to coat every strand in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Step 7: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, black pepper, or chili flakes if needed. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve immediately with extra grated cheese on the side.

Ingredient Background

Pecorino Romano Cheese

Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a sharp, tangy flavor that is essential to the traditional cacio e pepe recipe. Its salty profile pairs perfectly with the heat of the chili and the richness of the butter.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan adds a milder, nutty depth to balance the intensity of the Pecorino Romano. When combined, these cheeses create a creamy, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Chili Flakes

The chili flakes introduce a mild heat that transforms this dish from classic comfort food to a more dynamic, modern creation. You can adjust the quantity to match your spice tolerance.

Black Pepper

Freshly cracked black pepper is a defining feature of cacio e pepe. Toasting the pepper enhances its aromatic qualities, creating a warm, earthy undertone that complements the cheese and butter.

Technique Tips

• Grate Cheese Finely: Use the finest side of your grater to ensure the cheese melts smoothly without clumping.
• Control the Heat: Keep the pan on low heat when adding the cheese to prevent it from separating or becoming gritty.
• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is crucial for emulsifying the sauce and achieving the right consistency.
• Work Quickly: Once the cheese is added, toss the pasta immediately to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Cacio e Pepe: Transfer the sauced pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.
• Cold Pasta Salad: Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese, garlic, and chili, then chill for a refreshing summer dish.
• With Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta to turn this dish into a heartier meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on just a few components, choose the best pasta, cheese, and olive oil you can afford.
• Toast the Pepper Separately: If you’re new to cooking cacio e pepe, toast the pepper in a dry pan before starting the sauce to avoid burning it.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta will continue to cook slightly as you toss it in the sauce, so aim for just shy of al dente when boiling.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Garlic Cacio e Pepe: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright, zesty twist.
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped rosemary or thyme for an earthy, aromatic variation.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan butter, a plant-based Parmesan substitute, and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cheese-based sauce, which can separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap traditional pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Less Butter: Reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon and increase the olive oil to make the dish lighter.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra vitamins and texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Romantic Dinner: Pair with a crisp white wine and serve with a simple side salad for an intimate meal.
• Casual Gathering: Prepare a large batch and serve family-style with garlic bread and roasted vegetables.
• Holiday Side Dish: This pasta makes a luxurious side for roasted meats or seafood during festive occasions.

Special Equipment

• Microplane or Fine Grater: Essential for finely grating the cheese.
• Large Skillet: Use a wide, shallow pan to make it easier to toss the pasta and sauce together.
• Tongs: Handy for tossing the pasta without breaking it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-grated cheese?

It’s not recommended, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

2. How can I make it less spicy?

Simply reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether for a milder version.

3. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Long noodles like spaghetti, bucatini, or linguine work best because they hold the sauce well.

4. Can I use other cheeses?

While Pecorino Romano and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with Asiago, Grana Padano, or Manchego for different flavors.

5. Why did my sauce clump?

This can happen if the cheese is added to the sauce when it’s too hot. Remove the pan from heat before adding the cheese and stir vigorously.

6. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

7. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, but you may want to reduce or omit the chili flakes if serving it to young children.

8. Can I prepare it in advance?

It’s best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients (grate the cheese, slice the garlic) ahead of time to save effort during cooking.

Conclusion
Garlic Chilli Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet show-stopping dish that combines tradition with a spicy, garlicky twist. It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal. Perfect for everything from busy weeknights to special occasions, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So grab your favorite pasta and cheese, and treat yourself to this comforting, fiery delight!

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