Easy Creamy Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms: Your Go-To Pasta Recipe for Two
Indulge in a delightfully simple yet rich pasta dish that’s perfect for two: Cheesy Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms. This comforting Italian-style recipe masterfully combines a creamy, peppery sauce with tender noodles, earthy mushrooms, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. It’s an effortless culinary treat designed to impress a loved one or simply satisfy your craving for a truly delicious, heartwarming meal. The classic Roman “cheese and pepper” pasta gets a wonderful upgrade with the addition of savory mushrooms, creating a truly irresistible dish that will please almost anyone!
This Cacio e Pepe recipe, transformed into a luxurious creamy mushroom pasta, is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring only about 30 minutes or less from start to finish. It stands out as one of my absolute favorite pasta meals for two due to its ease of preparation and the depth of its classic, rich flavors. The magic happens when freshly grated cheese and luscious butter merge with savory earthy mushrooms, vibrant black pepper, and a touch of salt, all coating perfectly cooked pasta. This combination isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of culinary perfection.
For those who aren’t cooking for a large crowd, delicious and simple pasta dishes for two are always a winning choice. These recipes create just the right amount of food, minimizing extra leftovers and making meal planning a breeze. While this mushroom Cacio e Pepe is fantastic on its own, we often enjoy it alongside other fresh favorites like my Loaded Spinach Salad, crisp Garlic Cheese Asparagus, or a refreshing Italian Bean Salad. How hungry we are often dictates whether we savor it as a standalone star or as part of a larger, delightful spread!
The “Recipes for Two” Series: Perfect Portions for Intimate Meals
Becoming empty-nesters last fall brought a new challenge to my kitchen routine. After 27 years of cooking for a full house, scaling down meals for just two people has been an interesting adjustment. That’s why I launched this “Recipes for Two” series this year, dedicated to creating dishes perfectly portioned for a couple.
The beauty of these recipes, including this Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms, is their flexibility. While designed for two, they can easily be multiplied to cater to larger groups or simply to ensure you have delicious leftovers for the next day. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy cooking without the pressure of excessive portions. And don’t worry, I still get plenty of opportunities to cook for 8-12 people on Sundays, just like old times!
Lemon Pepper Chicken for Two – Made with Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Understanding Cacio e Pepe: A Roman Classic
At its heart, Cacio e Pepe is an iconic Roman pasta dish, famously translating to “cheese and pepper.” It features a deceptively simple yet incredibly flavorful combination of just a few core ingredients: robust black pepper, grated hard Italian cheese (typically Pecorino Romano or Parmesan), and pasta, most often spaghetti or tonnarelli. Unlike many other Italian sauces, Cacio e Pepe traditionally achieves its signature creamy texture through an emulsion created by combining the cheese, ground pepper, and the starchy water from the cooked pasta, with no added cream or oil. While it shares some similarities with Carbonara in its reliance on a few potent ingredients, Carbonara distinctly uses eggs and cured pork, setting it apart from the pure cheese and pepper focus of Cacio e Pepe.
Why You Will Absolutely Love This Creamy Mushroom Pasta
- Explosion of Flavor: This dish is a symphony of taste! The mushrooms are perfectly sautéed, developing a rich umami depth that beautifully complements the zesty kick of freshly ground black pepper and the nutty, salty notes of Parmesan. Each forkful of the buttery, savory Cacio e Pepe sauce is a delightful experience, amplified by the earthy goodness of the mushrooms.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: When you need a delicious dinner on the table in minutes, this Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms is your go-to. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when you simply want a fuss-free yet impressive meal. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it a truly effortless and satisfying dish.
- Incredibly Versatile: One of the best features of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize it to your heart’s content! While mushrooms are a fantastic addition, you can easily swap them for other favorite vegetables like vibrant spinach, cherry tomatoes, or tender broccoli. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pan-fried tofu. You can even experiment with different pasta shapes beyond spaghetti.
- Perfectly Portioned for Two: Say goodbye to excessive leftovers! This recipe is specifically designed to yield the ideal amount for two people, making it perfect for romantic date nights at home, intimate anniversary dinners, or any special occasion you share with a loved one. It’s also fantastic for a cozy night in, providing just enough comfort without overdoing it.
Key Ingredients for Your Mushroom Cacio e Pepe
Pasta: While spaghetti noodles are a classic choice for Cacio e Pepe due to their ability to beautifully absorb the creamy sauce and hold the pepper, feel free to experiment with other long pasta shapes like fettuccine or linguine. Even angel hair pasta can work if you prefer a lighter texture. The key is to cook it al dente, ensuring it maintains a slight bite. Remember to reserve some of that starchy pasta water; it’s essential for creating the perfect sauce emulsion!
Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil forms the silky base for this dish. It not only aids in sautéing the mushrooms to perfection but also adds a subtle, fruity depth of flavor that complements the richness of the butter and cheese. A good olive oil elevates the overall taste profile.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for the Cacio e Pepe sauce base. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of your dish, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned without being overly salty. It’s crucial for achieving that buttery smooth and creamy texture in the final sauce.
Mushrooms: Freshly sliced mushrooms are the stars of this particular variation. I typically reach for readily available button or cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, or larger portabella caps for their robust, meaty texture. However, don’t hesitate to explore other varieties like the delicate Lion’s Mane, earthy Morels, umami-rich Shiitake, intensely flavored Porcini, or even impressive Giant Puffballs if you can find them. Each type will impart its own unique flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: These seemingly simple seasonings are fundamental to the dish – it is, after all, “cheese and pepper”! A good quality sea salt and, crucially, freshly ground black pepper (not pre-ground) are non-negotiable. The coarse grind of fresh pepper releases more potent, aromatic notes that are essential for the classic, spicy warmth of Cacio e Pepe.
Parmesan Cheese: For the best results, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting and result in a grainy sauce. While Parmigiano-Reggiano is the gold standard, other hard Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano (which offers a sharper, saltier kick), or Asiago can also be used. A blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano is a popular choice for balancing flavor.
Garnish: Elevate the presentation and add extra layers of fresh flavor with a simple garnish. Fresh chives or finely chopped parsley provide a vibrant green contrast and a burst of herby notes. A final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances richness, and a light spritz of lemon juice can brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness beautifully. More freshly grated Parmesan is always a welcome addition!
Creative Variations to Customize Your Cacio e Pepe
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this adaptable recipe!
Consider using gnocchi in place of spaghetti noodles for a different, yet equally delicious, textural experience with their soft, pillowy bite. For a gluten-free option, spaghetti squash can be an excellent substitute, offering a similar noodle-like form with a healthy twist.
To add protein, incorporate cooked chicken (shredded or diced), succulent shrimp, or even your favorite flaked, cooked fish. For a plant-based protein boost, crispy pan-fried tofu or tempeh would also be a fantastic addition, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
If mushrooms aren’t to your liking, this dish is still superb without them. You can simply prepare the classic Cacio e Pepe sauce. Alternatively, swap them for other vegetables such as tender broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes (halved), or wilted spinach, sautéing them briefly before creating the sauce. These additions offer new textures and flavors while maintaining the dish’s comforting essence.
How Do You Pronounce Cacio e Pepe?
For those curious about the pronunciation, Cacio e Pepe is pronounced like “ca-cho ee pepe.” When spoken aloud, it sounds similar to kaa-chee-ow ee peh-pay. Knowing the correct pronunciation adds to the authentic Italian experience of enjoying this fantastic dish.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Delicious Pasta Recipe
Crafting this flavorful pasta dish is a straightforward process. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta noodles and cook them according to the package’s instructions until they are perfectly al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite to them. Before draining, make sure to reserve at least a cup of the starchy pasta water – this liquid gold is crucial for creating the creamy sauce later. Drain the cooked noodles and set them aside while you prepare the rich, buttery mushroom sauce.
While your pasta is cooking, heat one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them for about four minutes, or until they have released their moisture and started to brown nicely. This browning develops their rich, earthy flavor. Season the mushrooms with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can add as much or as little as you prefer to achieve your desired level of seasoning.
Next, incorporate the remaining olive oil and butter into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Reduce the heat to low to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and thoroughly mixed into a smooth, emulsified sauce. The key here is patience and gentle heat.
Tip: If you find the sauce becoming too sticky, thick, or clumpy, gradually add a tablespoon or two of the hot, reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until your desired creamy consistency is achieved. The starch from the pasta water helps to create a silky, cohesive sauce.
Finally, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss everything together vigorously, ensuring every strand of pasta is beautifully coated in the luscious sauce. Continue tossing until the pasta is fully combined and the sauce is creamy and homogenous. Serve immediately, drizzled with a touch of extra olive oil, and garnished with fresh herbs like chopped chives and parsley, along with more freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flourish.
Enjoy this exquisite dish while it’s warm and the flavors are at their peak!
Selecting the Perfect Wine Pairing for Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms
Choosing the right wine to accompany Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms can elevate your dining experience! The rich, creamy, peppery notes of the pasta and the earthy umami of the mushrooms call for wines that can either complement or cut through the richness. For red wine lovers, a medium-bodied red with good acidity works wonderfully. Consider a classic Italian Chianti, known for its bright cherry and earthy notes, which beautifully echo the mushrooms. A lighter Pinot Noir, with its nuanced berry and often mushroom-like undertones, is another excellent choice. If you prefer a bolder red, a Cabernet Sauvignon can stand up to the dish’s richness, especially if you’ve added a more robust mushroom variety. For white wine enthusiasts, look for varieties with good structure and acidity to balance the creamy sauce. A crisp, dry Italian Pinot Grigio is always a reliable option, offering refreshing citrus and pear notes. A buttery Chardonnay, particularly one with a touch of oak, can complement the richness of the butter and Parmesan. And a slightly off-dry Riesling can provide a lovely counterpoint with its acidity and fruitiness. The options are truly endless, depending on your personal preference and the specific characteristics of your Cacio e Pepe!
Love It? Be Sure to Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away! Save this classic Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms to your Pinterest board the next time you’re dreaming of a simple, comforting pasta meal for two. It’s an essential addition to your collection of favorite pasta dishes for intimate dinners or easy weeknight indulgence.
Helpful Tips for Your Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms
- Storing Leftovers: If by some miracle you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Vegan Adaptation: To create a delicious vegan Cacio e Pepe, simply substitute dairy butter with your favorite plant-based butter alternative, and use a high-quality vegan Parmesan cheese. The creamy texture and peppery flavor can still be wonderfully achieved!
- Perfect Pairings: This rich pasta dish is wonderfully complemented by a side of crusty bread. Serve it with your favorite rolls, soft buns, or a generous portion of warm, cheesy garlic bread for dipping into the luscious sauce. A light green salad would also make a refreshing counterpoint.
Other Delicious Pasta & Dinner Recipes You Will Enjoy!
- Bucatini with Italian Sausage – A hearty and flavorful pasta dish.
- Chicken Piccata – Zesty and tender chicken in a caper-lemon sauce.
- Easy Skillet Lasagna – All the flavor of lasagna, made quicker in one pan.
- Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs – A comforting family favorite, baked to perfection.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Tomato and Spinach – A light yet indulgent seafood pasta.
- Weeknight Chicken Parmesan Bake – Simple and cheesy, with just five ingredients.
- Lemon Basil Pasta – Fresh and bright, perfect for warmer evenings.
Now, let’s create a beautiful, memorable dinner for two! This Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms is not only perfect for a romantic night in but also incredibly easy to whip up for a satisfying weeknight meal. Enjoy every last bite! 
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Print Recipe
Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms (for Two)
Equipment
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Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pasta Server
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ZYLISS Classic Rotary Cheese Grater – NSF Restaurant Certified
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 5 ounces uncooked spaghetti or preferred pasta cooked al dente
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil divided
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (e.g., cremini, button, or portabella)
- 1 ½ cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Garnish: More Parmesan cheese, drizzle of olive oil, fresh chives, and parsley
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
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While pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 4 minutes until they have softened and browned. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir to combine.
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Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and forms a smooth sauce. (*see notes below for tips on consistency)
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Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce is creamy.
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Serve immediately, drizzled with a little extra olive oil and garnished with fresh chives, parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy hot!
Notes
Nutrition