Gather the ingredients.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
Heat a heavy skillet on the stove over high heat. Tip in the peppercorns and gently shake the pan over the heat for 1 minute.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
Transfer the peppercorns to a mortar and pestle, and crush well; you do not want a powder, the peppercorns should have a little bite to them. Alternatively, crush them under the weight of the heavy bottomed skillet. Set aside.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil, and add the spaghetti or your chosen pasta. After 5 minutes of cooking, pour 1½ cups of the cooking water into a large, heat-proof bowl and allow to cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Let the pasta continue cooking according to the package instructions.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
While the pasta is cooking, using a small whisk and whisking continuously, slowly add the water to the cheese to create a thick creamy sauce.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
Once you have your creamy sauce, add almost all the crushed pepper, reserving a little for garnish.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and tip into the bowl with the cheese and pepper sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat and garnish with additional freshly cracked pepper.
![Super Easy Cacio e Pepe Pasta]()