Discover the ultimate comfort food experience with our Cheesy Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms! This easy-to-follow, buttery pasta dish is perfectly portioned for two, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in or a special date night. Indulge yourselves with this comforting Italian-style recipe, featuring a luscious, creamy sauce that coats soft spaghetti noodles, tender sautéed mushrooms, and rich Parmesan cheese. This delightful pasta creation is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates!

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Creamy Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms: An Easy Italian Pasta Recipe for Two

This Cacio e Pepe recipe, elevated with earthy mushrooms, transforms into a truly exceptional and creamy mushroom pasta dish. What’s even better? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just about 30 minutes or less from start to finish. This makes it one of our absolute favorite pasta meals for two, celebrated for its effortless preparation and the profound depth of its classic, rich Italian flavors. The magic happens when freshly grated cheese and high-quality butter merge with savory earthy mushrooms, fragrant salt, pungent pepper, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a symphony of taste that’s pure perfection.

For those who aren’t cooking for a large crowd, delicious and simple pasta dishes designed for two are always a winning option. They provide just the right amount of food without the hassle of excessive leftovers. We love pairing comforting pasta dishes like this one with complementary favorites such as our Loaded Spinach Salad, crisp Garlic Cheese Asparagus, or a refreshing Italian Bean Salad. However, some evenings, when hunger strikes, this Cacio e Pepe is so satisfying that we simply enjoy it all by itself!

The Art of Cooking for Two: Our Series

Transitioning to cooking for just two people has been an exciting yet challenging journey since my husband and I became empty-nesters last fall. After 27 years of a bustling household filled with kids, adjusting portion sizes and meal planning for a smaller dynamic took some rethinking! This experience inspired me to launch a dedicated series this year, focusing on recipes perfectly scaled for two. Of course, these recipes are incredibly flexible – they can easily be multiplied to feed a larger group or to ensure you have delicious leftovers for another meal. And for those special Sundays, I still relish the opportunity to cook for 8-12, just like old times!

Discover more “Recipes for Two”: Lemon Pepper Chicken with Homemade Seasoning

What is Cacio e Pepe? The Roman Classic Explained

At its heart, Cacio e Pepe is an iconic Italian pasta dish hailing from Rome, renowned for its incredible simplicity and profound flavor. The name itself, “cheese and pepper,” perfectly encapsulates its core ingredients: a minimalist yet powerful combination of freshly ground black pepper, authentic Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan), and pasta, traditionally spaghetti or tonnarelli. This dish thrives on creating a luxurious, creamy emulsion from these few ingredients, often incorporating some of the starchy pasta cooking water. While it shares some comforting pasta characteristics with Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe stands apart by omitting eggs and cured pork, focusing purely on the harmonious blend of cheese and pepper. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients can create an extraordinary culinary experience.

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Bursting with Flavor: This Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms takes classic flavors to a new level. The carefully sautéed mushrooms infuse the dish with a deep, earthy aroma and umami richness that perfectly complements the sharp, savory notes of Parmesan and the warmth of black pepper. The buttery Cacio e Pepe sauce is incredibly flavorful and wonderfully savory, creating a truly irresistible dish.
Effortlessly Easy to Prepare: When you’re craving a gourmet-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms is your answer. With straightforward steps, you can have a delightful dinner ready in mere minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu date nights. It’s an effortless path to a delicious, satisfying meal.
Remarkably Versatile: This recipe offers fantastic flexibility to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment by adding other favorite vegetables alongside or instead of the mushrooms – consider vibrant broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, or fresh spinach. You can also easily incorporate your preferred proteins, such as grilled chicken, crispy pan-fried tofu, or succulent shrimp, and even swap out the pasta shape for a different texture.
Perfectly Portioned for Two: Whether you’re planning a romantic date night at home, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner, this recipe is designed to create the ideal amount for two people. It’s an elegant yet practical choice for intimate dining, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience without excess.

Key Ingredients for Your Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms

To create this irresistible Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms, you’ll need just a few high-quality ingredients:

Pasta: For an authentic Cacio e Pepe experience, spaghetti noodles are our top recommendation. Their long, slender strands are perfect for clinging to the creamy sauce. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, bucatini, or even delicate angel hair pasta. The key is to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil forms a luscious base for this dish. It not only helps sauté the mushrooms to perfection but also adds a subtle, fruity depth of flavor that complements the richness of the butter and cheese.
Butter: Unsalted butter is crucial for the Cacio e Pepe sauce. It contributes to the dish’s signature buttery smooth and creamy texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially when combined with salty Parmesan cheese.
Mushrooms: Freshly sliced mushrooms are essential for this recipe. We love using cremini (button) or portobello mushrooms for their robust flavor and meaty texture, but don’t hesitate to explore other varieties. Shiitake, oyster, or even a wild mushroom blend can add unique earthy notes to your pasta.
Salt and Pepper: These two fundamental seasonings are what define Cacio e Pepe. Freshly ground black pepper is non-negotiable – its vibrant, pungent flavor is a star. A pinch of salt is used to enhance all the flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter.
Parmesan Cheese: The secret to an outstanding Cacio e Pepe lies in using freshly grated Parmesan cheese. While Parmigiano-Reggiano is the gold standard for its complex, nutty flavor, high-quality Pecorino Romano can also be used for a sharper, saltier kick, or a blend of both. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that hinder the creation of a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Garnish: Elevate the presentation and flavor with fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh chives or finely chopped parsley adds a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. A final drizzle of good olive oil enhances richness, and for those who love a bright finish, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can cut through the richness beautifully.

Exciting Variations to Customize Your Pasta

This Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs:

Pasta Alternatives: For a delightful change of texture, try using soft gnocchi instead of spaghetti noodles. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, spaghetti squash makes a fantastic and healthy substitute, absorbing the creamy sauce beautifully.
Add Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, consider incorporating your favorite cooked protein. Grilled or shredded chicken, sautéed shrimp, or flaky white fish would all be delicious additions. For a plant-based protein boost, crispy pan-fried tofu or chickpeas can be stirred in at the end.
Vegetable Swaps: While mushrooms add a wonderful earthy depth, this dish is equally delicious without them. You can prepare it as a classic Cacio e Pepe, or introduce other vegetables. Sautéed broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, wilted spinach, or even roasted bell peppers would make excellent additions, offering different textures and flavors.
Make it Vegan: Transform this comforting dish into a vegan delight by simply swapping out traditional butter for a high-quality vegan butter and using your favorite plant-based Parmesan cheese alternative. The creamy texture and peppery flavor can still be wonderfully achieved!

How Do You Pronounce Cacio e Pepe?

For those new to this delightful Italian dish, Cacio e Pepe is pronounced “kaa-cho ee peh-pay.” Getting the pronunciation right adds to the authentic experience of enjoying this Roman classic!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Creamy Pasta Recipe

Crafting this delicious Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to bring this Italian favorite to your table:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking your chosen pasta noodles (we recommend spaghetti) according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This ensures the pasta retains a slight bite and can perfectly absorb the sauce. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water – this is crucial for creating the creamy sauce later. Drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the mushroom and cheese sauce.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms: While the pasta cooks, heat one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for approximately four minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown beautifully. This process concentrates their earthy flavor. Season the mushrooms generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

3. Create the Cheesy Sauce: Reduce the heat in the skillet to low. Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the sautéed mushrooms. Once melted, gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring constantly until the cheese fully melts and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. The key here is low heat and continuous stirring to prevent the cheese from clumping. If you find the sauce too sticky or thick, slowly add a tablespoon or two of the hot, reserved pasta water, stirring until you achieve your desired silky consistency. This pasta water, rich in starch, is essential for emulsifying the sauce and making it truly luxurious.

4. Combine and Serve: Finally, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss everything together vigorously until the noodles are thoroughly coated and the dish achieves a uniform, creamy texture. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and garnish generously with fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the full warmth and richness of this incredible pasta.

Enjoy this warm, comforting, and utterly delicious Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms!

What Wine Pairs Beautifully with Cacio e Pepe?

Pairing the right wine with Cacio e Pepe can elevate your dining experience, harmonizing with its rich, peppery, and cheesy profile. For this delightful pasta, especially with the added earthy mushrooms, several excellent wine varieties come to mind. If you prefer red wines, consider a medium-bodied Pinot Noir, which offers red fruit notes and a subtle earthiness that complements the mushrooms without overpowering the cheese. A light to medium-bodied Chianti, with its savory notes and bright acidity, is also a classic Italian choice that can cut through the richness of the cheese. For white wine lovers, a crisp, dry Pinot Grigio provides a refreshing contrast, while an unoaked Chardonnay offers a hint of roundness without being too heavy. If you enjoy something more aromatic, a dry Riesling with good acidity can also be a surprising yet delightful pairing. The key is to choose a wine that balances the dish’s creaminess and spice, rather than competing with it.

Love It? Be Sure to Pin It!

Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away! Save this classic Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms for the next time you’re craving a simple, yet elegant pasta meal for two. Pin it to your favorite pasta dishes board and make it a regular in your rotation!

Essential Tips for the Best Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms

Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to four to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Achieving the Perfect Sauce: The key to a silky, non-clumpy Cacio e Pepe sauce is low heat and continuous stirring when adding the cheese. Always use freshly grated, high-quality Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent proper emulsification.
Vegan Adaptation: For a delightful vegan version, simply substitute dairy butter with your preferred plant-based butter and opt for a good quality vegan Parmesan alternative. The robust flavors of pepper and mushrooms will still shine through.
Serving Suggestions: This pasta is incredibly satisfying on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with complementary sides. Serve it alongside your favorite crusty rolls, soft dinner buns, or classic garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad provides a lovely counterpoint to the richness.

Other Delightful Pasta and Dinner Recipes You Will Enjoy!

Hearty Bucatini with Italian Sausage
Classic Chicken Piccata
Effortless Skillet Lasagna
Comforting Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Tomato and Spinach
Quick Weeknight Chicken Parmesan Bake
Bright Lemon Basil Pasta

Ready to create a beautiful, memorable dinner for two? This Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms is the perfect choice, elegant enough for a romantic night in, yet wonderfully easy for any weeknight meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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Print Recipe

Cacio e Pepe with Mushrooms (for two)

Cacio e Pepe with mushrooms is a creamy mushroom pasta filled with flavors of parmesan, salt, pepper, and spaghetti noodles! Just for two!

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: black pepper, Cacio e Pepe, dinner for two, mushrooms, Olive oil, parmesan cheese, pasta

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: 833kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pasta Server
ZYLISS Classic Rotary Cheese Grater – NSF Restaurant Certified
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black

Ingredients

5 ounces uncooked pasta cooked al dente
2 Tablespoons olive oil divided
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter divided
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 ½ cups freshly shredded parmesan cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish with more parmesan cheese drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs like chives and parsley

Instructions

Cook pasta according to the package. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
While pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 4 minutes or until browned. Salt and pepper to taste.
Add in the remaining butter and olive oil to the mushrooms in the pan.
Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the shredded parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy. (*see notes for consistency)
Stir in cooked pasta until well combined and coated in sauce.
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives, parsley, and more parmesan.

Notes

If the sauce seems too thick after stirring in the cheese, add a bit of the hot, reserved pasta water (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and stir until the sauce reaches your desired silky consistency. This helps emulsify the sauce and prevents it from becoming clumpy.

Nutrition