Spaghetti with Black Pepper Sauce – Simple, Bold, and Comforting

Spaghetti with Black Pepper Sauce is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that highlights the bold, earthy taste of freshly ground black pepper. Tossed with butter, Parmesan, and a silky pepper sauce, it’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this dish requires only a handful of ingredients but delivers impressive results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppery Kick – Freshly cracked black pepper brings depth and warmth.
Silky & Savory – Butter and Parmesan create a rich, velvety sauce.
Fast & Easy – Ready in less than 20 minutes.
Versatile Dish – Works as a main course or elegant side.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the Pepper Sauce
   In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add freshly ground black pepper and cook for 1 minute, stirring to release its aroma.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat, gradually adding reserved pasta water until a smooth, glossy sauce forms.
4. Finish with Cheese
   Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
5. Serve
   Divide into bowls, garnish with extra cheese and parsley, and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~360
Protein: 11g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Freshly Cracked Pepper – Coarsely grind whole peppercorns for the best flavor.
• Adjust Consistency – Add pasta water a little at a time to achieve a silky sauce.
• High-Quality Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino makes the dish shine.

Why This Recipe Works

The warmth of black pepper pairs beautifully with butter and Parmesan, creating a creamy, savory sauce that clings to each strand of pasta. The minimal ingredients let the bold peppery flavor stand out while remaining balanced and comforting.

Spaghetti with Black Pepper Sauce is an effortlessly elegant pasta dish that combines bold flavor with creamy simplicity. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal or an impressive side for guests.