As I shuffled through my pantry, I stumbled upon a vibrant bottle of red food coloring, sitting inconspicuously next to my favorite bottles of olive oil and spices. It sparked a delightful idea for dinner—why not create a masterpiece of homemade pasta? This Pink Cacio e Pepe, with its dreamy hue and rich flavor, promised to brighten up an ordinary weeknight.

There’s something undeniably enchanting about crafting pasta from scratch, the way the dough transforms under your hands into soft, tender strands. Tossed in a luscious sauce of butter, Parmesan, and a hint of cracked pepper, each bite is an indulgence without the guilt or hassle of takeout.

Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises not just a feast for the palate, but also a feast for the eyes!

Why love Pink Cacio e Pepe?

Delightfully Unique: This pasta dish offers a playful twist on a classic, with the vibrant pink color that makes it visually stunning.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up an impressive meal without the need for culinary expertise.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter and Parmesan creates a deliciously smooth sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
Versatile Base: While perfect on its own, feel free to add your favorite protein or veggies to elevate it even further.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings or date nights at home.
For more delightful pasta dishes, check out our homemade pasta section.

Essential Pink Cacio e Pepe Ingredients

For the Pasta Dough
• Semolina Flour – adds a lovely texture and bite to the pasta.
• AP Flour – helps to create a smooth, easy-to-work dough.
• Whole Eggs – vital for structure and richness in the pasta.
• Salt – enhances the flavor of the dough, making each bite savory.
• Olive Oil – provides moisture and elasticity to the pasta, making it easier to handle.
• Red Food Coloring – adds a fun twist, turning your pasta into a delightful pink hue!

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – creates a velvety base for the sauce, enriching the overall flavor.
• Grated Parmesan – brings an incredible depth of cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the butter.
• Freshly Cracked Coarse Pepper – adds a spicy kick that balances the richness.
• Salt – adjust to taste for optimal seasoning in your sauce.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from crafting a magnificent Pink Cacio e Pepe that will transform your dinner time into a joyous celebration!

How to Make Pink Cacio e Pepe

Combine the semolina flour, all-purpose flour, eggs, salt, olive oil, and red food coloring in a mixing bowl. Stir until a cohesive dough forms, showcasing that beautiful pink hue.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Roll Out the rested dough to your desired thickness using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Cut it into your preferred pasta shapes—fettuccine or tagliatelle work wonderfully!
Melt the cubed unsalted butter in a large pan over medium heat. Watch it carefully; you want it just melted, not browned, to ensure a silky sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan, cracked pepper, and a pinch of salt to taste into the melted butter. Mix until well combined and slightly thickened, creating a luscious sauce.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, usually about 3-4 minutes for fresh pasta. Drain it, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Toss the drained pasta in the pan with your creamy sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Serve immediately for a delightful meal!

Optional: Grate extra Parmesan on top for that cheesy finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Pink Cacio e Pepe

Room Temperature: Fresh pasta can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before cooking. If you’re not cooking right away, it’s best to refrigerate it.

Fridge: Store leftover Pink Cacio e Pepe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavor, reheat gently over low heat.

Freezer: If you want to freeze your pasta, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat the pasta, add a splash of water or broth in a pan over low heat. Stir until warmed through for a deliciously creamy Pink Cacio e Pepe experience!

Pink Cacio e Pepe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this lovely dish and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Meat Lovers: Add cooked pancetta or crispy bacon for a savory crunch that enhances the dish’s richness. The salty, savory bite elevates the entire experience!
Veggie Delight: Incorporate sautéed spinach or peas into your sauce. These veggies not only boost nutrition but add a pop of color to your pasta, making it even more visually appealing.
Spicy Kick: For some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes when combining the sauce ingredients. This simple addition warms up the flavors and gives each bite a little zing!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. Their fragrant aroma and fresh taste brighten up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Swap traditional Parmesan for aged Pecorino Romano, which offers a sharper, more distinct bite. This variation adds a different dimension that’s sure to please cheese lovers!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas. This allows those on a gluten-free diet to enjoy the same comforting flavors without missing out.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to your sauce for an ultra-lush, creamy version of Pink Cacio e Pepe. It turns this dish into an indulgent treat!

Let your kitchen creativity shine, and savor every delicious bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Pink Cacio e Pepe are fantastic for busy home cooks! You can prepare the pasta dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. The sauce can also be made ahead—just combine the melted butter, Parmesan, and pepper, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook the fresh pasta (which takes only 3-4 minutes) and gently reheat the sauce over low heat until just warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal without the last-minute rush, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Helpful Tricks for Pink Cacio e Pepe

Flour Balance: Use a mix of semolina and all-purpose flour for the right texture. Avoid using too much all-purpose flour to prevent a gummy dough.
Rest the Dough: Letting your dough rest for 30 minutes is crucial. Skipping this step can result in tough pasta that doesn’t hold its shape well.
Watch the Butter: Melt the cubed unsalted butter slowly over medium heat. Overheating can lead to a burnt flavor that clashes with the rich sauce.
Timing is Key: Fresh pasta cooks quickly, so stay nearby. Overcooking can leave you with mushy pasta instead of that perfect al dente bite.
Save Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. It acts as a great tool to adjust the sauce’s consistency for Pink Cacio e Pepe.

What to Serve with Pink Cacio e Pepe?

Elevate your dining experience with some delightful sides and beverages that enhance the flavors of your vibrant pasta dish.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this classic accompaniment adds a comforting touch, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Arugula Salad: The peppery freshness of arugula brings a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta, enhancing each bite with a burst of brightness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roast to perfection, offering a hearty balance to the dish and adding a colorful variety of textures and flavors.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine complements the richness of the sauce, while its crisp notes refresh the palate.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert cleanses the palate beautifully, providing a sweet finish after the indulgent pasta course.
Caprese Skewers: Juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a burst of flavors that perfectly align with the dish’s richness.

Invite friends over or enjoy a cozy evening in, and let these accompaniments round out a dinner that’s not just a meal, but a memorable experience!

Pink Cacio e Pepe Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the pasta?
Absolutely! A mix of semolina flour and all-purpose flour is recommended for making Pink Cacio e Pepe. Semolina gives the pasta a delightful texture and bite, while all-purpose flour helps create a smooth, easy-to-work dough. This combination balances the qualities for perfectly tender pasta.

How should I store leftover pasta?
You can store leftover Pink Cacio e Pepe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using low heat and adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. It’s best to stir gently to ensure even heating.

Can I freeze the Pink Cacio e Pepe?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta! After forming the pasta shapes, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Then, transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe bag. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.

What should I do if my pasta is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, it may require a bit more flour. I recommend adding small amounts of flour, kneading gently, until it reaches a smooth, elastic consistency. Just be careful not to add too much, as it could make the pasta tough. If you’ve rolled it out already, consider using a bit of flour on the surfaces to help with handling.

Is there any way to make this dish suitable for someone with a gluten allergy?
Absolutely! To cater to gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the semolina and all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. Follow the same measurements, and adjust liquid as needed, as gluten-free flours can absorb differently than traditional flours.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Pink Cacio e Pepe?
Good question! One simple way to elevate your dish is by adding sautéed garlic or shallots to the butter before mixing in the Parmesan, which brings an aromatic element to the sauce. Additionally, consider tossing in some freshly chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cheese and butter. Enjoy experimenting!