Homemade Upgrade: Cacio e Pepe from Trader Joe's

Bring the comfort of Roman cuisine to your table with this Journey Foods twist on the beloved Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe. This version highlights classic flavors while letting you adapt with Journey’s recipe—making it hearty, simple, and delicious for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp butter (Journey’s plant-based butter or regular)
• 1 cup finely grated cheese (Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, or a dairy-free cheese from Journey Foods)
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• Salt for pasta water

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:

• Sautéed peas or chickpeas
• Sliced mushrooms
• Crispy plant-based bacon or prosciutto alternative

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve at least 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

2. Make the Sauce

• While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Lower the heat. Using tongs, transfer cooked pasta to the skillet (don’t worry if some water comes with it).

3. Create the Cacio e Pepe Emulsion

• Add in 2/3 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet.
• Sprinkle in the grated cheese a bit at a time, stirring vigorously until a smooth and glossy sauce forms. Add more pasta water if needed for a creamy texture.
• Toss until pasta is coated. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from clumping.

4. Customize with Journey Additions (Optional)

• Add veggies or protein for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Gently fold ingredients into the pasta before serving.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately topped with extra black pepper and a sprinkle of cheese.

Tips for Success

• Cheese Choice: Use finely grated cheese to ensure smooth melting.
• Pasta Water: This is crucial for thickening and emulsifying the sauce.
• Timing: Emulsify cheese off the heat for best texture.
• Journey Foods twist: Add in your favorite plant-based proteins or vegetables for a modern, nourishing spin on the Roman classic.

Enjoy!