Description
Cacio e Pepe Butter Beans is a creamy, savory dish blending tender butter beans with the classic Italian flavors of black pepper and Parmesan cheese. This simple stovetop recipe delivers a comforting, cheesy sauce with a peppery kick, perfect as a main or side dish. Dairy-free options and bean substitutions make it versatile and accessible.
Ingredients
Beans and Broth
- 30 ounces canned butter beans (2 cans or about 3 cups cooked beans)
- 1 cup low-sodium imitation chicken broth or water
Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, coarse grind
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese (dairy-free Parmesan can be used)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bloom the Pepper: Warm 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the freshly ground black pepper and nutritional yeast if using. Swirl and sauté for 45 to 60 seconds until the pepper becomes fragrant, releasing its aromatic flavors.
- Simmer: Add the canned butter beans along with the low-sodium imitation chicken broth or water. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by about half and thickens slightly.
- Add the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded Parmesan cheese. Gently fold the cheese into the beans until it melts and creates a creamy sauce, which should take 1 to 2 minutes. If the sauce is thicker than desired, thin it gradually with warm water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm immediately. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, thin the sauce with a splash of water to loosen it before warming on the stove or in the microwave.
Notes
- Butter Bean Substitutions: You can substitute butter beans with other creamy white beans like Navy Beans or Great Northern Beans. Cannellini beans also work but have a thicker skin, making them less creamy. Avoid using chickpeas as they are too firm for the desired texture.
- Cheese-Free Option: For a dairy-free alternative, soak 1/4 cup cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes. Blend soaked cashews with 1/2 cup water and 1/4 teaspoon salt to create a cashew cream. Add this in place of Parmesan during step 3 and simmer for about 5 more minutes until thickened. Season to taste with salt.
- Add Greens: Enhance the dish by adding a handful or two of chopped spinach, kale, or chard during the simmer step towards the end. This boosts nutrition and adds a fresh note.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
