Parmesan Cheese Wheel Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz Parmesan Cheese Wheel (small wheel, about 8 oz, for creating the edible bowl)
• 200 g Spaghetti Pasta (dry spaghetti, broken in half for easier handling)
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce (store‑bought or homemade tomato‑based sauce)
• 10 slices Pepperoni Slices (thinly sliced, adds smoky spice)
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt (for seasoning the pasta water and final dish)
• ½ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (optional, for enriching the sauce)

Instructions

1. Score the Parmesan Wheel

   Place the Parmesan wheel on a stable cutting board. Using a chef's knife, gently score shallow lines around the top edge to outline a shallow bowl shape, being careful not to cut all the way through.

   Time: PT5M

2. Create the Cheese Bowl

   Cut a wedge out of the scored wheel and use the knife to scoop out the interior cheese, leaving a hollowed-out shell. Reserve the scooped cheese for grating later.

   Time: PT5M

3. Flambé the Cheese Bowl

   Using a kitchen torch (or a lighter held at a safe distance), carefully flame the interior of the cheese bowl for 1–2 minutes until the surface lightly melts and turns golden. Rotate the bowl constantly to avoid burning.

   Time: PT2M

4. Boil Pasta

   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add 1 tsp salt, then drop in the spaghetti. Cook al dente, about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 212°F

5. Heat Sauce and Add Pepperoni

   While the pasta cooks, pour the marinara sauce into a small saucepan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and the pepperoni slices. Simmer on medium heat for 5 minutes until the pepperoni releases its oils.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium

6. Drain Pasta

   When the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander, shaking off excess water but leaving a little moisture to help the sauce cling.

   Time: PT2M

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   Return the drained pasta to the pot, pour the hot sauce over it, and toss gently. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.

   Time: PT2M

8. Assemble the Dish

   Transfer the sauced pasta into the warm Parmesan cheese bowl. Sprinkle the scooped‑out Parmesan cheese and extra pepperoni on top. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

   Time: PT5M

9. Enjoy

   Present the cheese bowl at the table, let guests dig in with forks or tongs, and savor the melty, salty, and spicy combination.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

800

Protein

30g

Carbohydrates

80g

Fat

35g

Fiber

5g