15-Minute Parmesan Black Pepper Pasta Sauce

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or bucatini
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
• 3/4 cup finely grated parmesan
• 3/4 cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped parsley, optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the pasta until al dente and reserve at least 1 cup of the cooking water.

2. 2

   Melt the butter in a wide skillet over medium-low heat. Add the black pepper and toast for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add 1/3 cup pasta water and swirl until the butter and water look emulsified.

4. 4

   Add the pasta and toss. Remove the pan from the heat, then add parmesan a little at a time while tossing constantly.

5. 5

   Add more pasta water in small splashes until the sauce is smooth and clings to the pasta. Taste before adding extra salt.