Cacio e Pepe Pie

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly spray an 8" springform pan with nonstick spray. Wrap bottom tightly in foil to prevent any leaks and place on a rimmed baking sheet.

   Step 2

   Mix Fontina, half-and-half, 4 oz. Parmesan, 1 Tbsp. pepper, and 1 1/2 tsp. salt in a large bowl that can rest on rim of pasta pot without falling in.

   Step 3

   Fill pasta pot with 5 quarts water and add remaining 1/2 cup salt. Bring to a boil and cook pasta 4 minutes shy of package directions. Drain.

   Step 4

   While pasta is cooking, place bowl with cheese mixture over pot and whisk constantly until cheese is melted, 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk in ricotta, then eggs and 2 Tbsp. oil. Add drained pasta to bowl and toss to coat.

   Step 5

   Transfer pasta to prepared pan, pressing down to compact lightly. Pour any leftover cheese mixture evenly over. Using tongs or a fork, pull up a few strands of pasta so they form loops just above surface of pie (these will get browned and give texture to the top).

   Step 6

   Bake pasta until cheese is bubbling and pie is golden brown on edges and sides, 35–45 minutes. Let cool 10–15 minutes before removing sides of pan. Slide a thin spatula underneath and around pie to help release it from pan, then transfer to a platter or cutting board. Top with Parmesan, a drizzle of oil, and a few cranks of pepper. Slice into wedges and serve warm.