Pink Cacio E Pepe is a twist on the classic pasta dish with a creamy pink sauce made from tomatoes and cheese! It’s rich, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Honestly, the best part is how easy it is to whip up. When I’m craving comfort, I just grab some pasta, mix in that cheesy goodness, and enjoy every bite. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or bucatini are the best choices for this dish as they hold the sauce beautifully. If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free options, those work too!
Pecorino Romano Cheese: This cheese gives a sharp flavor. If you can’t find it, use Parmesan or Grana Padano for a milder taste. Just note, the flavor will be somewhat different.
Heavy Cream: It makes the sauce rich. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the creaminess will lessen. Non-dairy milk, like cashew cream, can work too!
Tomato Paste: This adds the signature pink color. If you want a fresher flavor, you can use crushed tomatoes, but it might change the sauce’s texture slightly.
How Can I Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Achieving a smooth, creamy sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and technique. Here are my tips for success:
- Once the butter and tomato paste are cooked together, make sure to add the cream while keeping the heat low. This prevents the sauce from boiling, which could cause it to separate.
- When adding the cheese, do it gradually while stirring. This helps to melt it evenly and integrate it into the sauce for that lovely creaminess.
- If the sauce feels too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Add a bit at a time until you reach your desired consistency!
Enjoy your cooking journey with this lovely dish!
How to Make Pink Cacio E Pepe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or bucatini pasta
- Cheese: 1 cup (120 g) Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or whole milk
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Tomato Paste: 1-2 tablespoons (for the pink color and subtle tomato flavor)
- Salt: for pasta water
- Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 20 minutes to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a comforting meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain the pasta! This water is magic for adjusting the sauce later.
2. Make the Sauce Base:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet or pan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the tomato paste. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes. This helps the tomato paste develop a deeper flavor and brings a lovely color to your sauce.
3. Add the Cream:
Now, it’s time to add some creamy goodness! Pour the heavy cream (or milk) into the pan and whisk it together with the tomato paste until you have a beautiful pink sauce. Make sure to warm the sauce gently; just a little heat is enough—no boiling, please!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the pasta is ready, add it directly to the pink sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta gets well coated with that creamy goodness.
5. Cheese and Pepper Time:
Turn the heat down low and gradually sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and the freshly cracked black pepper. Stir quickly to melt the cheese evenly into the sauce, creating that smooth, luscious texture. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t be shy! Add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
6. Final Taste Test:
Give the pasta a taste. Do you need to adjust the seasoning? It should be creamy, cheesy, and just a tad peppery with that lovely pink hue shining through. Perfect!
7. Serve it Up:
Time to plate! Arrange the pasta in a nest shape on each plate. For an extra touch, you can garnish with more Pecorino, an extra sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and some chopped parsley for color and flavor.
And there you have it! Enjoy this delicate, creamy, and beautifully colored take on the classic Roman pasta dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Dish?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or bucatini are traditional choices, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne or fettuccine would work well too. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can certainly make a vegan version! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk, and replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, adding veggies can enhance the flavor and nutrition! Consider sautéing spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes in the butter before adding the tomato paste for a delicious twist!