Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet Recipe
Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish combining creamy cannellini beans with a sharp cheese blend, fragrant black pepper, and crispy toasted country bread. This comforting skillet meal offers a delightful mix of textures and rich, savory flavors perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For Toasted Bread:
- 4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 thick-cut slices white country bread, divided
For Bean and Cheese Skillet:
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (about 1 oz.), plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup finely shredded Pecorino Romano cheese (about 1 oz.)
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 2 (14.5-oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained but not rinsed, divided
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 slices of white country bread and cook, turning halfway through, until both sides are golden brown, approximately 3 to 4 minutes total. Transfer the toasted bread to a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining 2 slices of bread and oil. Once all bread is toasted, wipe out the skillet to prepare for the next step.
- Melt Butter and Infuse Pepper: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and cook while stirring frequently until the pepper becomes fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds. This step enhances the pepper’s aroma and flavor in the dish.
- Simmer Beans with Cheese: Add the finely shredded Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 can of the drained cannellini beans, and 1/2 cup water to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Then lower the heat to medium-low and continue simmering, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. This creates a creamy, cheesy bean sauce.
- Finish the Bean Mixture: Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and add the second can of drained cannellini beans. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. The pepper and salt balance enrich the overall flavor.
- Serve: Divide the cheesy white bean mixture among serving bowls. Top each portion with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve alongside or topped with the toasted white country bread for a complete, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Do not rinse the cannellini beans after draining to retain flavor and starch, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Use thick-cut country bread for optimal crunch and absorbency when toasted in olive oil.
- Adjust black pepper quantities according to your spice preference.
- For a smoother sauce, you can lightly mash some of the beans during simmering.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between creamy beans and crunchy bread.
Keywords: Cacio e Pepe, White Beans, Italian Skillet, Cannellini Beans, Comfort Food, Easy Weeknight Dinner, Vegetarian, Cheese, Black Pepper
