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Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet Recipe

Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet Recipe
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This Cacio E Pepe White Beans Skillet Recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal that combines the classic Roman flavors of cacio e pepe with creamy white beans. The dish offers a perfect balance of peppery bite and cheesy richness, creating a comforting, protein-packed skillet that’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water (adjust as needed)
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (for a spicy twist)
  • Baby spinach or kale (for greens boost)
  • Cooked Italian sausage or pancetta (for protein upgrade)
  • Fresh rosemary or sage (for herbal notes)
  • Nutritional yeast (for vegan substitution)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Garlic: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add the White Beans: Drain and rinse the white beans, then add them to the skillet. Stir to coat them evenly with the garlic-infused oil, letting them warm through for a few minutes.
  3. Create the Sauce Base: Add vegetable broth or water to the skillet to loosen the mixture. Stir gently while gradually sprinkling in the Pecorino Romano cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  4. Season with Pepper and Salt: Generously crack fresh black pepper over the skillet and stir it in. Taste and adjust salt if needed, ensuring the sauce is perfectly balanced with a peppery bite.
  5. Serve Immediately: Once your creamy cacio e pepe white beans skillet looks silky and cohesive, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Don’t skip freshly cracked black pepper as it’s essential for the dish’s signature taste.
  • Sauté garlic on medium-low to avoid bitterness and burning.
  • Add vegetable broth or water gradually to control sauce consistency and maintain creaminess.
  • Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cacio e Pepe, White Beans, Skillet Recipe, Easy Weeknight Dinner, Italian, Comfort Food, Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Protein-Packed

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/cacio-e-pepe-white-beans-skillet-recipe/