Elevate your snack game with this irresistible Cacio e Pepe Popcorn, a savory twist on the classic Roman pasta dish. Featuring light, fluffy popcorn coated with melted butter, nutty Pecorino Romano cheese, and a bold kick of freshly ground black pepper, this recipe is a quick and easy gourmet treat ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for movie nights, casual gatherings, or even a solo indulgence, this snack combines the comforting crunch of freshly popped kernels with the sophisticated flavors of Italy. With its simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this cheesy and peppery popcorn is the ultimate savory snack for any occasion.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add a couple of popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it. Once the kernels pop, the oil is ready.
Add the rest of the popcorn kernels to the pot in an even layer. Cover the pot and shake it gently to coat the kernels in oil. Cook the popcorn, shaking the pot occasionally, until the popping slows down significantly, about 2-3 seconds between pops. Remove the pot from heat.
While the popcorn is still hot, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, drizzle the butter over the popcorn, tossing to coat evenly.
Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and salt evenly over the popcorn. Toss again to ensure every piece is well coated with cheese and seasonings.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more pepper or cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy, peppery Cacio e Pepe Popcorn!
Calories |
622 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.5 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.1 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1188 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 38.5 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.5 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 23 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 198 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.