Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium high heat. Add pasta and cook until just al dente (fully cooked but still firm), about 8 minutes. Turn off the heat and set the pot aside. Do not overcook the pasta.

While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a shallow saucepan over medium-high heat. Add black pepper and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Add ⅓ cup of the hot pasta water and stir vigorously to combine. A vigorous whisking emulsifies fat from the butter and pasta water, creating a creamy sauce.

Turn the heat down to low and transfer the hot pasta into the saucepan. Stir in cheese and stir well to combine, about one minute. The melted cheese makes the sauce thicker and more creamy. Add 2-3 tablespoons pasta water and mix well until desired consistency is reached.

Serve immediately on a plate and garnish with extra pepper and cheese if desired.