Name: Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 4 thick-cut slices white country bread, divided; 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter; 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided, plus more for seasoning; 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan (about 1 oz.), plus more for serving; 1/2 cup finely shredded Pecorino Romano (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

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Introduction

Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy cannellini beans with the peppery sharpness of Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses. This simple skillet recipe elevates pantry staples into a satisfying meal perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

A close-up of a dish with a thick layer of creamy white beans covered in a light beige sauce, sprinkled with small shreds of white cheese and coarse ground black pepper. On one side, there is a piece of golden-brown crispy toast with a textured surface partially under the beans, all arranged in a white bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 thick-cut slices white country bread, divided

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided, plus more for serving

1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan (about 1 oz.), plus more for serving
1/2 cup finely shredded Pecorino Romano (about 1 oz.)

1/2 tsp. (or more) kosher salt
2 (14.5-oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained, not rinsed, divided

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 Tbsp. olive oil. Add 2 slices of bread and cook, turning halfway through, until golden brown on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes total. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining bread and 2 Tbsp. oil. Wipe out skillet.

Step 2: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 3: Add Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, salt, 1 can of cannellini beans, and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat; then reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Fold in remaining 1/2 tsp. pepper and the second can of beans; season with additional salt if needed.

Step 5: Divide the bean mixture among bowls. Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve with the toasted bread on the side.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor and aroma in this dish.
For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of cheeses.

Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy beans.
Use sourdough bread instead of country bread for an extra tangy toast.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A round white plate holds a creamy beige bean stew with visible black pepper flecks scattered on top. The stew has one main layer of soft, plump beans bathed in a thick beige sauce. Shredded white cheese is lightly sprinkled over the beans. To the right side of the plate rests a single slice of toasted bread with a golden brown, crunchy texture showing holes and uneven edges. A silver spoon with more beans rests on the left side of the plate, slightly submerged in the stew. The plate is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with great northern beans or navy beans. Just make sure they are cooked and drained similarly for the best texture.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

The bean skillet itself is gluten-free, but the recipe includes bread for serving. You can replace the bread with gluten-free bread or enjoy the dish on its own to keep it gluten-free.