Save Cacio e Pepe Pasta Pie Hack: Crispy Baked Comfort A delightful twist on the Roman classic, this baked pasta pie features a golden, crispy exterior and a creamy, peppery cheese filling perfect for cozy nights or impressive gatherings.
This dish quickly became a family favorite, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) bucatini or spaghetti, Salt for pasta water
- Cheese & Sauce: 150 g (1 ½ cups) Pecorino Romano cheese finely grated, 60 g (½ cup) Parmigiano Reggiano finely grated, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 large eggs
- Assembly: 30 g (¼ cup) Pecorino Romano for topping, 1 tbsp butter for greasing pan, 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan with butter and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if using for a crispier crust.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 2 minutes less than package instructions it should be very al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat melt butter with olive oil. Add black pepper and toast for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet tossing to coat in peppery butter. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl whisk eggs. Add grated cheeses and mix until combined. Gradually whisk in reserved warm pasta water to make a thick creamy cheese mixture.
- Step 6:
- Add pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Step 7:
- Arrange the pasta mixture in the prepared pan pressing it down gently to compact. Sprinkle with remaining Pecorino Romano.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes or until the top is golden and crisp.
- Step 9:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then run a knife around the edges and release the springform. Slice and serve warm.
Save This recipe always brings the family together around the table enjoying every bite and sharing stories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of fresh green salad and a crisp white wine such as Verdicchio or Pinot Grigio for the perfect meal.
Variations
For extra flavor add a pinch of chili flakes to the pepper or swap in Grana Padano cheese for a different twist.
Storage
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Save Enjoy this comforting pasta pie making any meal special and memorable.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta types work best for this pie?
Bucatini or spaghetti are ideal, as their shape holds sauce well and provides the right texture after baking.
- → How do I achieve a crispy crust?
Greasing the pan with butter and sprinkling breadcrumbs before adding the mixture creates a golden, crispy exterior.
- → Can I adjust the pepper level?
Yes, freshly ground black pepper provides signature heat; add chili flakes for extra spiciness if preferred.
- → What cheeses are recommended?
Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano deliver authentic flavor, but a blend including Grana Padano can add richness.
- → How to serve this pasta pie?
Allow it to cool slightly before slicing; it pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Verdicchio.