Description
Savor the delightful combination of crispy bacon and creamy Pecorino Romano cheese in this Bacon Cacio e Pepe. This simple yet indulgent Italian pasta dish is elevated with freshly cracked black pepper, creating a rich and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a quick and satisfying dinner that brings classic flavors to your table.
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), stirring 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), stirring 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 added creaminess, stir in the unsalted butter until melted.
- Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, being cautious with salt due to the bacon and cheese.
- Plate the pasta in bowls or on a large serving platter, twirling the pasta into nests for presentation.
- Finish with an extra sprinkle of Pecorino Romano cheese, more black pepper, and optional chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Dont skip the reserved pasta water; its essential for a creamy sauce.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil, adding sautéed mushrooms for depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes