Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or bucatini (or any long pasta of choice)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1–2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for garnish)
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups reserved pasta water (approximately)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just shy of al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 ½ cups of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Toast the Spices: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Stir in the chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper, toasting them for an additional 30 seconds to release their aromas.
- Emulsify the Sauce: Lower the heat and slowly add 1 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring constantly to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes to slightly reduce and thicken.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the grated Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the cheese in small handfuls to avoid clumping, and whisk vigorously to emulsify the fats and liquid.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pasta and adjust with additional salt, black pepper, or chili flakes as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with extra grated cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g