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 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

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Introduction

Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy cannellini beans with the classic Italian flavors of Pecorino, Parmesan, and black pepper. Served with crispy toasted bread, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for any time of day.

A shiny silver pan holds creamy white gnocchi mixed in a light beige sauce, sprinkled unevenly with fine, white grated cheese and small black pepper specks. A wooden spoon on the right side stirs the dish, lifting some gnocchi. Above the pan, there is a small wooden bowl filled with grated cheese and a chunk of hard cheese. To the left, a piece of toasted bread with a golden-brown crust is placed directly on a white marbled surface. Below the bread, a white plate contains coarsely ground black pepper. The overall scene is brightly lit with soft natural light. 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 tablespoons of 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 the toasted bread to a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining bread and 2 tablespoons of oil. Wipe out the skillet.
Step 2: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, salt, one can of cannellini beans, and 1/2 cup water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Fold in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and the second can of beans. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Step 5: Divide the bean mixture among bowls. Top each serving with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve with the toasted bread on the side.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, mash a few of the beans with the back of a spoon before folding in the rest.
Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor and aroma in this dish.
Swap country bread with sourdough for a slightly tangier toast.
Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a bright finish.

Storage

Store any 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 the mixture feels too thick. Toast fresh bread before serving again for the best texture.

How to Serve

A shallow white plate holds a creamy dish of white beans in a light beige sauce. The beans are soft and plump, scattered with small specks of black pepper and topped with some grated white cheese. On the right side of the plate, there is a single piece of golden-brown toasted bread with a crispy and uneven texture. A silver spoon rests on the left side of the plate, scooping up some beans and sauce. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and simple backdrop to the dish. 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 other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans. Just be sure to drain them well and keep some of the liquid for the sauce.

Is this dish vegan-friendly?

This recipe contains butter and cheese, so it is not vegan. However, you can make it vegan by using plant-based butter and vegan Parmesan substitutes.