Cacio e Pepe Mashed Potatoes
Prep Time
7 minsCook Time
11-12 minsFree Time
to daydream about your next vacation
Make this quick microwave cacio e pepe mashed potatoes in minutes. Creamy, steaming hot potatoes mixed with Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper bring the bold, comforting flavors of this Italian classic to life. Perfect as an easy, flavorful side for any meal, all made in your Anyday dish.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work– and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Deep Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 2 (340g) medium russet potatoes, washed, peeled, and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup (125ml) milk or half-and-half
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper (or more if desired)
- salt, to taste
- ¼ cup (20g) grated Pecorino or Parmesan cheese
Preparation
- Place the potato pieces in an Anyday dish. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 9-10 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the olive oil, milk or half-and-half, black pepper, and salt. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the milk is warm.
- With a potato masher, fork, or immersion blender, mash the potatoes until creamy. If needed, add more warm milk or half and half until the consistency is to your liking.
- Add grated cheese to the hot potatoes and stir to combine. Sprinkle extra cheese and black pepper on top to serve.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Sweet potato twist: Substitute with sweet potatoes or yams for a subtly sweet and equally delicious variation.
- Chive garnish: Top with thinly sliced chives for a pop of color and fresh, herby flavor.
- Garlic infusion: Add a dash of garlic powder to the mix for a hint of savory, garlicky depth.
- Crispy bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory crunch that adds a touch of indulgence.
- Discover more potato recipes by exploring our collection here!
Recipe notes
- We recommend russets for this recipe because their texture works better with the rest of the ingredients in creating a good fluffy yet creamy mash.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
All You Need to Know About Making Cacio e Pepe Mashed Potatoes
What is Cacio e Pepe?
Cacio e pepe is a classic Italian pasta dish originating from Rome, traditionally made with just three ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Translating to "cheese and pepper," this simple yet flavorful dish relies on starchy pasta water to create a creamy sauce, coating each strand with rich, cheesy, and peppery goodness. The minimalist ingredients highlight the bold flavors, making cacio e pepe a beloved staple in Italian cuisine.
What are Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes?
This recipe was inspired by the traditional Italian pasta dish cacio e pepe, a Roman favorite made simply with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. We’ve captured that bold, peppery essence and creamy texture in a comforting mashed potato recipe. By combining Parmesan (or Pecorino) cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, these mashed potatoes deliver a rich, savory twist on a classic comfort food.
Can I make Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes in the microwave?
Absolutely! Using an Anyday dish, you can make Cacio e pepe mashed potatoes in the microwave, cutting down on time and clean up. This method quickly steams the potatoes while keeping them tender and flavorful, making it easy to achieve a perfectly creamy texture.
How long can I store Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes in the fridge?
These mashed potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an Anyday dish. Once the dish cools, cover it with the Anyday lid and refrigerate. The silicone-sealed lid helps keep your mashed potatoes fresh and prevents them from drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes?
The best way to reheat Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes is in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Microwave on high for 1-4 minutes, stirring halfway through. For extra tips on reheating, check out our blog here.
How do I achieve the best creamy texture in Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes?
For the creamiest texture, use an immersion blender or a potato masher to mash the potatoes thoroughly. Addi ext more warm milk or half-and-half as you mash to help reach your desired consistency. Discover more potato recipes by exploring our collection here!
Is there a dairy-free option for Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes?
Yes! Substitute the milk or half-and-half with unsweetened plant-based milk (such as oat or almond milk) and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, which brings a cheesy, umami richness to the dish while keeping it dairy-free. Discover more vegan recipes by exploring our collection here!
