Raclette Wheel Pasta (Pasta alla Ruota)

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Using a knife, remove some of the cheese from the centre of the half wheel to create a large cavity. Reserve the removed cheese and cut it into small pieces.
3. Place the cheese wheel on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the surface is soft and melted.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the pasta water before draining.
5. Return the pasta to the pot with the butter. Season with salt and pepper, adding a splash of pasta water to create a silky coating.
6. Transfer the hot pasta to the warmed cheese wheel. Add the reserved raclette pieces and toss vigorously until the pasta is completely coated in melted cheese.
7. Serve immediately with freshly ground black pepper and chopped parsley, if desired.

For an even richer dish, add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, toasted walnuts or shaved Parmesan before serving.