This classic Roman dish brings together the hearty flavors of perfectly cooked pasta, crispy bacon, sharp pecorino cheese, and a touch of black pepper. Each bite is a harmonious blend of salty, savory, and slightly spicy notes that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or seeking a quick yet indulgent dish, this dish delivers an authentic taste of Rome right to your table.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta
4 oz (115g) guanciale or pancetta, sliced thin
1 cup grated pecorino cheese
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salt, for pasta water
Olive oil, for cooking

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced guanciale or pancetta and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the crispy bacon bits sit on paper towels to drain excess oil.
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated pecorino cheese and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the crispy bacon. Toss to combine, allowing the residual heat to coat the pasta with the bacon’s flavor.
Gradually add the grated pecorino and pepper mixture to the pasta, tossing well to create a creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
Serve the pasta in individual bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of grated pecorino cheese and black pepper.

Notes

To achieve the best results, use high-quality ingredients, as each element contributes to the dish’s flavor. Pecorino cheese is a key player here, so opt for aged and flavorful varieties. Be sure to reserve some pasta cooking water – the starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a smooth and cohesive pasta experience. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.