Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. Picture this: creamy butter beans mingling with a velvety sauce of pecorino Romano and just the right amount of pepper, all coming together in a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Tuscan-inspired chicken soup The aroma wafts through your kitchen, luring everyone nearby to investigate what deliciousness is unfolding. Lemon Butter Sauce with fish. For more inspiration, check out this ravioli sauce recipe recipe.
Now, let me take you back to a family gathering where I first served this dish. My aunt, known for her discerning palate, took one bite and proclaimed it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I knew then that this recipe would become a staple at our dinners—perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests at dinner parties. Trust me, once you try Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans, your culinary repertoire will never be the same. For more inspiration, check out this chickpea paprikash recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans recipe is easy enough for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for special occasions
- The creamy texture makes each bite feel indulgent while remaining healthy
- Vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- Its versatility allows you to serve it as a main course or delightful side dish
I once made Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans for my friends during a potluck, and they couldn’t stop raving about it.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Butter Beans: Opt for canned beans for convenience or dried ones soaked overnight for an authentic touch.
-
Pecorino Romano Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor; it’s the star of this dish.
-
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper elevates the dish with its aromatic kick; don’t skimp on this!
-
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the dish with depth; don’t underestimate their power in enhancing flavor.
-
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness; it makes everything look gourmet.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Butter Beans: Drain and rinse your canned butter beans until they’re nice and clean. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and boil until tender before proceeding.
Sauté Garlic and Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1 minute should do the trick.
Add Butter Beans to Skillet: Gently toss in your butter beans and stir them around so they soak up all that garlicky goodness. Cook until heated through—about 3-4 minutes should suffice.
Create the Sauce: Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper into the skillet along with grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir well until everything is mixed together into a creamy dream—don’t be shy here!
Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle in a bit more olive oil if needed, then fold in chopped parsley for color and freshness. Taste your masterpiece; adjust seasoning if necessary!
Serve It Up!: Transfer your Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans onto plates, garnishing each serving with additional Pecorino Romano cheese and parsley. Enjoy while still warm!
Now that you have mastered this delicious Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans recipe, get ready to wow your family or friends! Each bite will transport you straight to Italy without ever leaving your kitchen. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans combine creamy beans with a classic Italian flavor profile, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated
- This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for dinner parties
- The aroma of fresh pepper and cheese will fill your kitchen, making it irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the butter beans until they’re tender. Meanwhile, prepare the Cacio e Pepe sauce, mixing cheese and freshly cracked pepper into the hot pasta water for a creamy texture. Creamy Parmesan Pasta pairing.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to personalize this dish by adding sautéed vegetables or herbs like parsley for freshness. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also elevate the flavors if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve creamy perfection, make sure your pasta water is well-salted before adding the butter beans
- Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor and consistency in your sauce
- Mixing the cheese off the heat prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friends marveling at how simple ingredients created such rich flavors—a true crowd-pleaser!

FAQ
Can I use canned butter beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned butter beans save time but rinse them before using.
What’s the best cheese for Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans?
Pecorino Romano offers a sharp flavor that complements this dish perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld together.
Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans is a delightful dish that marries creamy butter beans with a rich, savory sauce of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. This comforting recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With its vibrant colors and indulgent yet healthy ingredients, this dish makes every meal feel gourmet. Dive into the comforting flavors of Italy right from your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the butter beans by draining and rinsing them until clean.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the butter beans to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in freshly cracked black pepper and grated Pecorino Romano cheese until creamy.
- Adjust with more olive oil if needed, then fold in chopped parsley.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano cheese and parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 20mg




Leave a Comment