Garlic Butter Cacio e Pepe-Style Pasta

Ingredients

• 180 g spaghetti
• 28 g unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 60 g Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 0.5 tsp salt(optional)
• 0.25 cup pasta water(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 10–12 minutes, then reserve about 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks (or right after draining), melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. 3

   Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss with black pepper, then add reserved pasta water a splash at a time, tossing until glossy and creamy.

4. 4

   Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and evenly coated. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed, then serve immediately.