Bucatini Cacio e Pepe (Roman Sheep Herder's Pasta) Recipe
Original Recipe Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound bucatini (dry)
- 2 cups finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for this recipe. This will ensure you have everything on hand before you start.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt to the water. Once the water is boiling, add the bucatini and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, place the grated Pecorino Romano cheese into a large glass bowl. Use a fork to mix it well and ensure there are no lumps.
Step 4: Once the bucatini is cooked to your desired texture, use a spaghetti fork or tongs to transfer it directly into the bowl with the grated cheese. Be sure not to let the water drain off completely - a little pasta water will help create the sauce.
Step 5: Add one ladle of the pasta water to the bowl with the pasta and cheese. Stir the pasta gently until a creamy texture forms, making sure the cheese melts and blends with the pasta water.
Step 6: Continue adding more pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.
Step 7: Sprinkle the freshly ground black pepper over the pasta. Toss everything together until it is evenly coated.
Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious bucatini with Pecorino Romano and black pepper!
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 438
- Total Fat: 12g (15% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 7g (35% DV)
- Cholesterol: 41mg (14% DV)
- Sodium: 870mg (38% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 59g (21% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Total Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 23g (45% DV)
- Calcium: 443mg (34% DV)
- Iron: 4mg (21% DV)
- Potassium: 177mg (4% DV)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Comments
Carolyn Moore
10/16/2022 10:04:20 AM
This is the authentic recipe for Cacio e Pepe. Without garlic, frozen peas, or bacon - just pasta, cheese, and pepper. I remember enjoying this dish every Friday evening when I was younger. It remains a beloved favorite due to its delicious taste and affordability. Thank you for sharing this genuine Italian recipe. Close your eyes and you'll feel like you're in Rome.
Benjamin Lewis
05/15/2023 05:14:02 AM
I have been preparing this dish for years. Occasionally, I incorporate diced pancetta or a chopped heirloom tomato for added flavor. It's a go-to meal for those days when you're not in the mood to cook or haven't had a chance to go grocery shopping. I typically top it off with parmesan cheese, or sometimes with pecorino romano for a delightful twist.
Heather Williams
12/02/2023 01:26:51 PM
I mixed in some fresh spinach with the pasta while it was cooking. Initially, the cheese clumped together and adhered to the spinach when it was hot, but once it cooled down, I stirred it and it blended in perfectly.
Lisa Clark
02/14/2024 11:36:17 PM
The product remained unchanged.
Patricia Parker
05/07/2023 01:58:22 AM
This recipe is outstanding! I would eat it every day if it weren't so high in carbohydrates.
Amanda Wilson
12/21/2023 05:46:51 AM
I found reading about the history of this recipe quite fascinating. It was clearly a straightforward and uncomplicated recipe. I did notice a bold pepper flavor, which I actually quite enjoyed. Overall, it was definitely worth making at least once. Thanks for sharing the recipe!! :)
Rachel Hall
09/09/2022 06:10:38 PM
I tried the recipe exactly as instructed, but my cheese ended up clumping together in large chunks. Despite this, the taste was enjoyable, although I doubt I will attempt this dish again. It somewhat reminded me of a gourmet version of mac and cheese!