Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast

Perfect marriage of Italian Cacio e Pepe and scrambled eggs created the easiest and most satisfying breakfast – the Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast! This mouthwatering dish combines creamy scrambled eggs with a hint of Pecorino cheese, all atop golden slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s a flavor-packed treat that will leave your taste buds dancing. And the best part? With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Why this recipe works

Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast is the perfect marriage of simplicity and flavor. By incorporating the principles of Cacio e Pepe, a classic Italian pasta dish known for its minimalistic yet incredibly tasty ingredients, we elevate the humble scrambled eggs to new heights. The combination of eggs, Parmesan cheese, butter, and a touch of salt and pepper creates a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.

What is Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast

Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the comforting elements of creamy scrambled eggs and the classic Italian flavors of Cacio e Pepe. This dish takes the beloved traditional pasta dish, Cacio e Pepe, and transforms it into a scrumptious breakfast or brunch option by incorporating the flavors into a delectable egg toast.

Cacio e Pepe, which translates to “cheese and pepper,” is a well-known pasta dish from Rome, Italy. It features a simple yet tantalizing combination of ingredients, including Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta. This dish has become beloved for its rich, creamy, and savory flavors that come together effortlessly. The Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast takes inspiration from this pasta dish and translates it into a delightful breakfast or brunch option.

Best ingredients for Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast

• Eggs: Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture. Opt for organic eggs if available, as they tend to have richer yolks and a more vibrant taste.
• Pecorino cheese: Choose a good-quality pecorino cheese and grate it fresh for the ultimate burst of flavor. The nutty and salty profile of cheese complements the eggs perfectly.
• Butter: A small amount of butter adds richness and helps create a luscious texture in scrambled eggs. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Bread: For toasting, select a sturdy bread, such as sourdough. The bread should be able to hold up well to the toppings without becoming soggy.

How to make Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast

Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Whisk the eggs. In a bowl, crack two eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. Season with pepper to your liking.

Step 2: Add pecorino cheese. Stir in 2 tablespoons of grated pecorino cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure the cheese is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Melt butter. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and coat the pan evenly.

Step 4: Cook the eggs. Pour the egg and cheese mixture into the skillet. Let it cook for a few seconds until the edges start to set. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently scrape the eggs from the bottom of the skillet and fold them over. Continue to do this until the eggs are softly scrambled and there is no liquid egg left.

Step 5: Toast the bread. While the eggs are cooking, toast 2 slices of bread until they are golden and crispy. You can use a toaster or a stovetop griddle pan for this step.

Step 6: Plate the eggs. Once the eggs reach your desired consistency, remove the skillet from heat. Place the scrambled eggs on top of the toasted bread slices. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle additional pecorino cheese on top of the eggs and add a pinch of pepper.

Storing and freezing tips

Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to savor the contrast of textures and flavors. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Top tips for the best Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast

• Whisk the eggs thoroughly to ensure a smooth and uniform texture. This will result in creamy scrambled eggs.
• Season the egg mixture well with pepper. Remember that pecorino cheese also adds a salty element, so I personally think they do not need additional salt.
• Grate the pecorino cheese fresh for the best flavor. Pre-packaged grated cheese may lack the same depth of taste.
• Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan to prevent the eggs from sticking during the cooking process.
• Toast the bread slices until they are golden and crispy to provide a sturdy base for the scrambled eggs.
• Experiment with additional ingredients such as cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted red peppers to customize your Cacio e Pepe Egg Toast.

Serving suggestions

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil on top of the scrambled eggs to add a burst of freshness.
• Avocado slices: Serve the toast with creamy avocado slices for a creamy and nutritious addition.
• Sautéed vegetables: Pair the egg toasts with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for an extra dose of flavor and nutrients.
• Side salad: Accompany the egg toast with a refreshing side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to create a well-rounded meal.

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Polish version of this recipe available here.