Italian cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity, rich flavours and deep cultural roots. Among its many classic dishes, one stands out for both taste and presentation: Pasta alla Ruota. In this dish, freshly cooked pasta is tossed in a large, hollowed-out cheese wheel, coating the pasta in melted cheese. It’s not just food—it’s a culinary show.
SEE ALSO: The definitive list of the most iconic cheesy dishes from all around the world →
In this post, we’ll explore the origins of Pasta alla Ruota, how it’s made, and why it’s become popular around the world. We’ll also share tips for making this indulgent dish at home.
What is Pasta alla Ruota?
“Pasta alla Ruota” translates to “pasta in the wheel”, and the name says it all. A large wheel of cheese, usually Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano, is hollowed out in the middle. Hot pasta is tossed inside, where the heat melts the cheese, creating a creamy coating.
This dish is as much about the experience as the flavour. Whether you see it made in a restaurant or at a special event, the spectacle of swirling pasta through a cheese wheel is unforgettable. The aroma of melting cheese, paired with the sight of pasta soaking it in, creates a meal you won’t forget.
Synonyms
Pasta alla Ruota is also known by a few other names, depending on the region or restaurant. Some common alternative names include:
- Cacio e Pepe in Forma – This variation refers specifically to a version of the classic Roman dish cacio e pepe (pasta with cheese and black pepper) served in a cheese wheel.
- Fettuccine Alfredo in Forma – When made with a creamy Alfredo sauce and tossed in the cheese wheel, it may be called this.
- Pasta in Forma di Parmigiano – Literally “pasta in Parmigiano wheel”, this name emphasises the use of Parmigiano Reggiano as the serving vessel.
These variations usually depend on the type of pasta used or the specific recipe, but they all refer to the same fundamental technique of tossing pasta in a cheese wheel.
The history of Pasta alla Ruota
The exact origins of the cheese wheel pasta are unclear, but it likely started in the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna and Lazio. Both areas are famous for their cheesemaking, producing large wheels of aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano. It makes sense that these local products inspired a dish like Pasta alla Ruota.
The dish gained popularity in the 20th century when Italian restaurants began offering it as a unique, interactive dining experience. Today, Pasta alla Ruota is a staple in many high-end Italian restaurants worldwide. It may feel modern, but at its core, it reflects Italy’s culinary traditions: using simple, high-quality ingredients to create something extraordinary.
The key ingredient: Cheese
Cheese is the heart of Pasta alla Ruota. The choice of cheese makes a big difference in the dish’s flavour and texture. Two cheeses are most commonly used: Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Known as the “King of Cheeses”, this hard cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months. Its nutty, fruity flavour adds depth to the pasta. When it melts, it creates a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta without overpowering it.
- Pecorino Romano: Made from sheep’s milk, Pecorino Romano has a saltier, bolder taste. It’s usually aged for around eight months. This cheese is especially common in Lazio and brings a stronger, tangy kick to the dish.
While these two cheeses are the traditional choices, chefs today experiment with others like Grana Padano, Asiago or even truffle-infused cheeses for a touch of luxury.
The process of cooking pasta in a cheese wheel
What makes Pasta alla Ruota so special is its simplicity. At its core, you only need pasta, cheese and perhaps a bit of seasoning. But the way these ingredients come together is what makes the dish so magical.
1. Preparing the cheese wheel
The cheese wheel is the star of the dish. The top of the wheel is carefully cut away to reveal the rich cheese inside. Then, a shallow well is carved into the middle. This hollowed-out area is where the pasta will be tossed.
Some restaurants will also use a blow torch to slightly char the exposed surface of the cheese paste. This adds a little bit extra depth to the dish’s flavour and also makes it easier to stir the pasta through.
2. Cooking the pasta
Cheese wheel pasta works best with long, thin pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine or tagliolini. The pasta is cooked al dente, meaning it’s firm but not hard. This step is crucial because the pasta will soften slightly when it’s mixed with the hot cheese.
3. Tossing the pasta in the cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, it’s immediately tossed into the cheese wheel. The heat from the pasta melts the cheese in the well. The chef then vigorously tosses the pasta inside the wheel, coating each strand with melted cheese.
Sometimes, a splash of pasta water is added to help the cheese turn into a smooth sauce.
4. Adding finishing touches
Although the cheese is the highlight of the dish, many variations include extras to enhance the flavour. Freshly ground black pepper, herbs like basil or parsley, or even shaved truffles are common toppings. Some chefs also add pancetta, garlic or mushrooms to give the dish more depth.
The experience of eating Pasta alla Ruota
The true joy of Pasta alla Ruota comes from both the flavour and the experience. If you’ve ever had this dish in a restaurant, you’ll know that watching it being prepared is part of the fun. Seeing the pasta tossed in a giant cheese wheel while the smell of melted cheese fills the air is a sensory treat.
When you finally take a bite, the pasta is creamy, rich and perfectly cheesy. The melted cheese clings to each piece of pasta, giving every mouthful a luxurious texture. The strong flavour of the cheese balances the soft, comforting feel of the pasta. Any added herbs or toppings provide a fresh contrast.
Where to find Cheese Wheel Pasta
Several restaurants around the world offer this hugely popular dish.
In Italy, the tradition of serving pasta from a cheese wheel is rooted in regions like Rome and Emilia-Romagna. Restaurants such as Antica Osteria Nandone in Tuscany and Osteria Storie di Cucina in Milan are known for their interpretations of this indulgent experience.
In the United States, it’s become especially popular in recent times. Some examples of restaurants serving this dish include:
- Forma in Santa Monica, California, claims to have inspired the term “dalla forma” for this dish. Their pasta is tossed tableside in wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Cacio e Pepe in New York offers a version with the restaurant’s signature dish being prepared in a pecorino Romano wheel.
- Vesuvio Bistro in Little Rock, Arkansas and Prosecco Fresh Italian Kitchen in Las Vegas also offer their take on this classic.
- In Northern Virginia, restaurants such as Osteria Marzano and Roberto’s Ristorante Italiano offer variations like fettuccine or carbonara prepared in a massive Parmigiano Reggiano wheel.
In Asia, restaurants such as Il Caminetto in Tokyo and Sapori D’Italia in Hong Kong have also brought this delightful experience to the East. And in Australia, you can visit Salt Meats Cheese in Brisbane.
How to make Pasta alla Ruota at home
You might think Pasta alla Ruota is only for fancy restaurants, but it’s possible to recreate this dish in your own kitchen. With quality pasta, good cheese and a little effort, you can enjoy this luxurious meal at home.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 small wheel of Pecorino
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese wheel: If you’ve managed to get hold of a small wheel of cheese, carve out a shallow well in the centre. If you don’t have a full cheese wheel, you can grate a large amount of cheese into a big bowl.
- Cook the pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
- Toss the pasta in the cheese: Drain the pasta, saving some of the water. Transfer the hot pasta directly into the cheese wheel (or bowl of grated cheese). Toss the pasta quickly, adding a splash of the pasta water to help melt the cheese and form a sauce.
- Season and serve: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of black pepper, fresh herbs, or even some sautéed mushrooms or pancetta if you like.
That’s it! You can now enjoy a taste of Pasta alla Ruota at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Why you should try Pasta alla Ruota
Pasta alla ruota isn’t just about food—it’s about creating an experience. The combination of rich, melted cheese with freshly cooked pasta is pure indulgence. It’s a dish that’s simple yet feels luxurious. The added bonus of watching it being prepared tableside only enhances the overall enjoyment.
Next time you’re in the mood for something special, why not try making pasta alla ruota? With its rich flavours and impressive presentation, it’s a dish that’s sure to wow your guests—or simply treat yourself to something unforgettable.
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
