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Recipe by:

Dana Ramsey

Quick and Creamy Cacio e Pepe Orzo

Delight in a quick, creamy pasta dish featuring orzo, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper more to taste
  • 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • ½ cup pasta water reserved from cooking orzo
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • 10-inch skillet
  • Measuring cup
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. In a 10-inch skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add freshly cracked black pepper and sauté for about 30 seconds.
  3. Drain the orzo, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Add the orzo to the skillet, coating it in the butter and pepper.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in Pecorino Romano cheese, adding reserved pasta water gradually until creamy.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or additional pepper. Serve hot, garnished with more cheese and pepper.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the orzo.