This Pink Cacio E Pepe is a fun twist on the classic pasta dish! It combines creamy tomato sauce with cheese and pepper for a tasty, bright flavor. It’s simple yet special!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish! I like to serve it with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top – because more cheese is always a good idea! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This is the classic choice, but you can also use bucatini or fettuccine for a different texture. These pastas hold onto the sauce nicely.
Heavy cream: If you’re looking for a lower-calorie version, you can replace it with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Tomato paste: For a fresher taste, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or even a spoonful of marinara sauce. This will slightly change the flavor but will still give that lovely pink color!
Pecorino Romano: If you can’t find this cheese, you can use Parmesan, though it won’t be as sharp. Grana Padano is another great alternative that works well in this recipe.
Black pepper: Freshly grinding your pepper makes a big difference in flavor! If you want a milder taste, use less or try white pepper instead.
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture takes a few steps, but it’s quite simple if you follow these tips.
- Heat the cream and tomato paste slowly over medium heat. Stirring helps incorporate air, making the sauce creamier.
- When you add the cheese, do it slowly, mixing well to ensure it melts completely. If it clumps, don’t worry! Just keep stirring.
- Adding a bit of pasta water is key. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the noodles and keeps everything silky.
- Use tongs when tossing the pasta with the sauce. This method makes it easier to coat every noodle evenly.
How to Make Pink Cacio E Pepe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) tomato paste (for the pink color and subtle tomato flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, for pasta water
- Optional: a little pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total, with around 10 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any pasta night! Plus, the dish is ready to serve immediately after cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This is usually around 8-10 minutes, but check the package for the best timing!
2. Prepare the Pink Sauce:
While your pasta is cooking, take a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and the tomato paste into the saucepan. Stir them together until everything is smooth and warmed through. This lovely mixture creates a light pink sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.
3. Drain and Reserve:
Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is great for adjusting the sauce later if needed. Then, drain the pasta using a colander.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the hot, drained pasta directly into the pink sauce. Use tongs or a pasta fork to gently toss the pasta, ensuring that every strand is coated with the saucy goodness!
5. Add Cheese and Pepper:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually stir in the finely grated Pecorino Romano and the freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well until the cheese melts and blends into a creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Plate the Dish:
Get your favorite plates ready! Neatly plate the pasta and finish by sprinkling extra grated Pecorino Romano and a bit more freshly ground black pepper on top. This adds extra flavor and looks beautiful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to serve your Pink Cacio E Pepe! Enjoy it right away for the best flavor and texture. It’s creamy, peppery, and oh-so-delicious!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use bucatini, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta shape.
How Do I Store Leftover Pink Cacio E Pepe?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore creaminess and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Pecorino Romano cheese. For a little extra flavor, add some crushed garlic or nutritional yeast for that umami kick!
What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?
No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water or additional cream to reach your desired consistency. It will help keep it creamy and luscious!
