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Easy cacio e pepe with caramelized onions

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  • Author: Pamela
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Easy cacio e pepe with caramelized onions offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This simple yet indulgent recipe features al dente spaghetti or bucatini tossed with sweet, golden caramelized onions, freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Each bite delivers creamy richness and savory depth, transforming your dining experience into a cozy Italian trattoria moment right at home. Perfect for any occasion, this crowd-pleasing dish is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
  • 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 12 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 medium-sized onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant (about 20-25 minutes).
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to boil. Add spaghetti or bucatini and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
  3. Combine Pasta and Onions: Transfer drained pasta into the skillet with caramelized onions (remove from heat). Toss well to combine.
  4. Add Cheese and Pepper: Gradually mix in cheese and black pepper while adding reserved pasta water until achieving a creamy consistency.
  5. Taste Test: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Dish out the pasta into bowls and garnish with extra cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately!


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 72g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg