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Comforting Three-Cheese Cacio e Pepe in Spaghetti Squash Form

Overtop view of 3 plates of squash pasta
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
55 min
Yields
4 (raw veg = 5 cups before mixing in cheese)

Cacio e Pepe translates to “cheese and pepper”, and is the ultimate no-nonsense pantry pasta consisting of freshly ground pepper, noodles, and good quality cheese. Spaghetti squash presents much like spaghetti noodles and is generally available all year-round, making for an excellent alternative for gluten-intolerants (more gluten-free dinner inspiration here) or those looking for a healthy low-carb twist on the classic. So grab your cheese grater, and start prepping tonight’s dinner.

Related: 21 Italian Desserts You Need to Try Before You Die

Another cheesy pasta recipe with a twist: this winter greens mac & cheese will make you feel healthy. You’ll also devour this vegetarian spaghetti puttanesca with cauliflower. Lastly, test out these weeknight dinners where veggies replace carbs.

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ingredients

1
spaghetti squash
1
Tbsp olive oil
½
tsp salt
1 ½ 
tsp coarsely ground black pepper, divided
2
Tbsp olive oil or butter
¾
cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
½
cup finely grated pecorino Romano cheese
¼
cup mascarpone cheese or smooth ricotta (optional)
Chopped parsley or basil
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directions

Notes

Don’t forget to save the squash seeds and roast them as a snack.

spaghetti squash cacio pepe recipe ingredients on a countertop
Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Cut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and strands with a spoon. Brush inside with 1 Tbsp oil and sprinkle with ¼ tsp each salt and pepper. Place cut side down on the prepared pan.

Step 3

Roast until a paring knife is easily inserted in the centre, about 45 minutes. Let cool.

Step 4

Using a large spoon, spoon out and shred into long strands. Spread on a double layer of paper towel or clean kitchen towel to absorb any liquid.

scooping out and shredding squash interior
Step 5

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil and then the squash, remaining ¼ tsp salt and remaining 1 ¼ tsp pepper and toss. Stir in mascarpone (if using), stirring until just melted and combined. Remove from heat and sprinkle with the Parmesan and pecorino cheese, tossing to combine.

adding cheese to cacio e pepe baked spaghetti squash
Step 6

Divide among plates and sprinkle with parsley and more cheese, if desired.

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