Ah, Cacio e Pepe – the ultimate comfort food. The creamy, cheesy goodness of this Italian classic never goes out of style. But why settle for just one way to enjoy it when you can mix and match ingredients to create a whole new world of flavors? In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 creamy Cacio e Pepe recipes with a twist – from classic takes on the dish to innovative twists that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Whether you’re looking for a decadent pasta dish or a savory side to add some excitement to your meal, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Cacio e Pepe with Homemade Pasta
A timeless Italian classic, this recipe combines the simplicity of a few quality ingredients with the comfort of homemade pasta. The result is a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 6 tablespoons (84g) extra-virgin olive oil
– 3/4 cup (90g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the homemade pasta according to package instructions, or until al dente.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the olive oil and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Season with black pepper to taste.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Add the reserved water to the saucepan with the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and cheese mixture, tossing until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Sauce preparation time: 10-12 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Risotto with Truffle Oil
This classic Italian risotto gets a luxurious twist with the addition of truffle oil, elevating the dish to new heights. A simple yet rich and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and truffle oil. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Cacio e Pepe with Calabrian Chilies
This spicy twist on the classic Italian dish combines the richness of cacio cheese, the warmth of black pepper, and the bold flavor of Calabrian chilies. The result is a comforting, aromatic pasta that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup cacio cheese, shaved
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 2-3 Calabrian chilies, sliced into thin rings
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced Calabrian chilies and cook for 4-5 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Add shaved cacio cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Calabrian chilies if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Arancini with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Discover the Italian delight of Cacio e Pepe-stuffed arancini, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked Arborio rice, butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each arancini shell with about 1 tablespoon of the Cacio e Pepe mixture.
4. Dip the stuffed arancini in breadcrumbs to coat.
5. Fry the arancini in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian pizza gets a fresh twist with the addition of creamy mozzarella and peppery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 2 tbsp black pepper, freshly ground
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the dough.
4. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi with Brown Butter
This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of brown butter, the creaminess of cacio e pepe sauce, and the pillowy softness of homemade gnocchi. It’s a comforting, indulgent treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (cacio)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss to combine.
5. In a small skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Cook until browned and nutty, stirring frequently.
6. Toss the gnocchi mixture with the brown butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your mushroom game with this decadent recipe, featuring a rich and creamy cacio e pepe filling.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese, flour, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the heavy cream and mix until smooth.
4. Butter the mushroom caps and fill each with the cacio e pepe mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Frittata with Fresh Herbs
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this frittata combines creamy cacio e pepe sauce with fresh herbs for a flavorful breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (cacio)
– 2 tablespoons black pepper (pepe)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Melt butter in a 9-inch skillet over medium heat.
4. Add cacio e pepe sauce and stir until smooth.
5. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges start to set.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs evenly across the top.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are almost set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Mac and Cheese with Bacon
This Italian-inspired mac and cheese gets a smoky twist with crispy bacon, melted mozzarella, and a rich cacio e pepe sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp cacio e pepe sauce (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to create a roux. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, cacio e pepe sauce, and cooked macaroni to the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni mixture with mozzarella cheese and crispy bacon in a baking dish. Top with additional grated mozzarella if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts with Pecorino
Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious recipe that combines the comfort of cacio e pepe with the nutty flavor of Pecorino.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in Pecorino cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with cacio e pepe mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Garlic Bread with Parsley
Elevate your bread game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of cacio e pepe sauce with the brightness of fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, preferably day-old
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread 1/2 teaspoon of the garlic-butter mixture onto each bread round.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the garlic-butter spread.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Place the bread rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad that combines the richness of cacio e pepe sauce with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup cacio e pepe sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, cacio e pepe sauce, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Polenta with Roasted Garlic
A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on traditional polenta, infused with the deep richness of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
2. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta cornmeal. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
3. Remove the roasted garlic from its wrapping and squeeze the soft flesh into the polenta mixture. Whisk until well combined.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Lobster Pasta with Lemon Zest
This decadent pasta dish combines the richness of lobster, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper with a burst of citrus from lemon zest. A perfect recipe for a special occasion or a treat yourself moment.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb cooked lobster meat, diced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lobster meat and stir to combine with butter mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and black pepper until well combined.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with lobster mixture, ensuring pasta is well coated.
6. Sprinkle lemon zest on top of pasta and toss gently.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Cauliflower Gratin
Elevate your cauliflower game with this creamy, cheesy gratin that combines the classic Italian flavors of cacio e pepe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, butter, and a pinch of salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and flour.
5. Add roasted cauliflower to the cheese mixture and toss to coat.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle with black pepper to taste.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Carbonara Hybrid
A creamy, cheesy, and satisfying fusion of Italian classics – Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 4 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked pancetta to the bowl and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Pull-Apart Bread with Rosemary
Cacio e Pepe Pull-Apart Bread with Rosemary: A Twist on the Classic Italian Recipe
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cacio e pepe with the ease and drama of a pull-apart bread. Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant and herbaceous note to this deliciously cheesy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, rosemary leaves, and black pepper on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Cacio e Pepe Scalloped Potatoes
This Italian-inspired dish combines the creamy richness of cacio e pepe sauce with the comforting warmth of scalloped potatoes. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine butter, flour, and milk. Whisk over medium heat until smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and black pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Arrange potato slices in the prepared dish, overlapping slightly.
7. Pour cacio e pepe sauce over potatoes, making sure they’re fully coated.
8. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Deviled Eggs with Chives
Elevate your deviled eggs game with this creamy, savory twist featuring the Italian flavors of Cacio e Pepe. This recipe is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
– 1 tablespoon chopped chives
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove yolks.
3. In a bowl, mix yolks with mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle chopped chives on top of each deviled egg.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the whites are set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cacio e Pepe Popcorn with Black Pepper
Elevate your popcorn game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese, the pungency of black pepper, and the crunch of freshly popped kernels.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cacio)
– 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the kernels according to your preferred method (stovetop, microwave, or air popper).
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix with the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
3. Add the freshly popped popcorn to the bowl and toss until the kernels are evenly coated with the Cacio e Pepe mixture.
4. Sprinkle the coarse black pepper over the popcorn and toss again to distribute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (popping time) + 2-3 minutes for assembly
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness! This article presents 20 creative twists on the classic Italian recipe, Cacio e Pepe. From classic pasta dishes like homemade pasta and risotto, to unexpected applications like pizza, frittata, and even popcorn, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of ingredients and flavor combinations, you’ll find something new to try in this collection of innovative Cacio e Pepe recipes.
