Cheese and Pepper
Why Make This Recipe
Cheese and Pepper is a classic Italian dish that is both simple and delicious. It’s a great choice when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare. The creamy cheese paired with the spicy kick from freshly ground black pepper makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
How to Make Cheese and Pepper
Ingredients
- Salt
- 8 oz bucatini, spaghetti, or tonnarelli
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ – 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Directions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, bring 2 quarts of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain.
- Set the same pot over low heat and melt the butter.
- Add the pepper and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss to coat evenly.
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- In a blender, combine the cheese and ⅔ cup of the pasta cooking water. Blend until smooth and creamy, 10 to 15 seconds.
- Add the sauce to the pasta in the pot and toss with tongs.
- Place the pot back over low heat and cook, stirring constantly with the tongs, until the sauce is the consistency of a thin cream sauce, a few minutes.
- If needed, add more of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce. Be careful not to get it too hot, as it may clump up.
- Once the sauce is the right consistency, immediately transfer the pasta to bowls and serve. Pass more cheese and pepper at the table, if desired.
How to Serve Cheese and Pepper
Serve Cheese and Pepper while it’s hot. Offer extra grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper at the table for guests to add to their liking. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
How to Store Cheese and Pepper
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a little pasta water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Cheese and Pepper
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more!
- Make sure not to overheat the sauce after adding the cheese, as it can clump.
Variation
You can add cooked vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, to the dish for an extra nutrient boost. Alternatively, some people like to include pancetta or prosciutto for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while Pecorino Romano is traditional, you can substitute it with Parmesan or Grana Padano if you prefer a milder taste.
2. Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, the ingredients in Cheese and Pepper are generally vegetarian-friendly, but be sure to check your cheese for any non-vegetarian additives.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead, and follow the same cooking instructions.
Cheese and Pepper
Ingredients
Method
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, bring 2 quarts of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and drain.
- Set the same pot over low heat and melt the butter.
- Add the pepper and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss to coat evenly.
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- In a blender, combine the cheese and ⅔ cup of the pasta cooking water. Blend until smooth and creamy, 10 to 15 seconds.
- Add the sauce to the pasta in the pot and toss with tongs.
- Place the pot back over low heat and cook, stirring constantly with the tongs, until the sauce is the consistency of a thin cream sauce, a few minutes.
- If needed, add more of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce. Be careful not to get it too hot, as it may clump up.
- Once the sauce is the right consistency, immediately transfer the pasta to bowls and serve.