1️⃣ Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil and boil pasta until very al dente (1-2 mins less than package directions because it will finish cooking in the sauce)
2️⃣ In a pot over medium high heat, toast the pepper until fragrant (1-2 mins) then add the butter; once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook whisking constantly for 1 minute
3️⃣ Start gradually pouring in the milk 1/2 cup at a time, whisking so that the milk gets fully incorporated before adding more
4️⃣ Once all of the milk is added, continue whisking until the white sauce starts to bubble and thicken (2-3 mins) and then whisk in the pecorino romano cheese
5️⃣ Stir in the pasta and cook for another 2-3 mins until pasta is desired tenderness, then turn off the heat (the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools)
6️⃣ Top with a sprinkle of black pepper and some grated pecorino romano and enjoy!
