5-Ingredient Cheese and Pepper
A quick and creamy dish made with just five ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep, delivering rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Essentials
- 12 oz Bucatini or spaghetti Offers a unique texture that captures the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tbsp Kosher salt Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil Adds depth of flavor and richness.
- 2 tbsp Butter Creates a silky, smooth sauce that brings everything together.
- 1 tsp Coarsely ground black pepper Provides a warm kick that elevates the dish.
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup Finely grated Parmesan or romano cheese Delivers a savory, cheesy element.
- 2 tbsp Finely chopped parsley (optional) Adds a fresh touch and color, enhancing visual appeal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and cooking utensils.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
- Finely grate the Parmesan or romano cheese, using a box grater for optimal texture.
- If using parsley, wash and chop finely.
- Measure out olive oil, butter, and black pepper.
Cook/Assemble
- Add the bucatini or spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat in the olive oil and butter mix.
- Gradually add the grated cheese and black pepper, stirring until creamy. Add reserved pasta water gradually for desired sauce consistency.
Serve
- Remove from heat and taste; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy immediately while warm, savoring the creamy texture and peppery notes.
Notes
For richer flavor, use high-quality cheese, ideally freshly grated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For meal prep, double the recipe to retain delightful flavors. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.