Classic Spaghetti alla Gricia

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Spaghetti alla Gricia.

1. Step 1

   Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil.

2. Step 2

   Once it’s bubbling, add your spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions, giving it a gentle stir now and then until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

3. Step 3

   While the pasta is cooking, grab a nonstick pan and heat it over medium heat.

4. Step 4

   Toss in the guanciale and let it sizzle away for about five minutes, or until it’s tender and has developed a lovely crispy edge.

5. Step 5

   Once the guanciale is just right, add a ladleful of the pasta cooking water to the pan and give it a good stir.

6. Step 6

   Cover the pan to trap in the heat and let those flavors mingle.

7. Step 7

   As your pasta continues to cook, don’t forget to add another ladle of that starchy cooking water to the guanciale; this will help create a deliciously rich sauce.

8. Step 8

   When your spaghetti is about ten minutes away from being done, reserve a cup of the cooking water and then drain the pasta.

9. Step 9

   Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the guanciale and toss everything together, adding reserved cooking water as needed to achieve that creamy, dreamy consistency.

10. Step 10

    Once you’ve got it just right, turn off the heat and sprinkle in a third of the grated Pecorino Romano cheese.

11. Step 11

    Toss it all again until the cheese melts and beautifully coats the spaghetti.

12. Step 12

    Now, it’s time to serve! Divide the pasta among four plates, generously topping each serving with the remaining Pecorino Romano cheese and a hearty sprinkle of black pepper.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy your delicious creation right away, and savor every bite of this comforting dish!.