Description
Savor the delicious twist on a classic with Bacon Cacio e Pepe, featuring creamy pasta tossed with crispy bacon, Pecorino Romano cheese, and cracked black pepper. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, delivering rich flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti or bucatini
- 4 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt, for pasta water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water).
- Add the spaghetti or bucatini and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander without rinsing.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- With the skillet still over medium heat, add the freshly cracked black pepper to the bacon fat and toast for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the bacon fat and pepper mixture.
- Gradually sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese while tossing the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- For extra creaminess, add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and toss until melted and incorporated.
- Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet and toss everything together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Relish your deliciously creamy and savory Bacon Cacio e Pepe, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests!
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese, for the best flavor.
- Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when toasting the black pepper.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes