Unbelievably Easy & Delicious:
Pizza Beans: 5 Delicious Pizza Beans for a Quick Weeknight Meal!

Forget everything you thought you knew about weeknight dinners! Get ready to dive into the savory, cheesy, and utterly delightful world of Pizza Beans. This ingenious dish takes humble cannellini beans and transforms them into a comforting, flavor-packed sensation reminiscent of your favorite slice. Perfect for a quick lunch, a hearty side, or a light dinner, this Pizza Beans Recipe is a true game-changer. Imagine bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and tender beans coming together in a symphony of Italian-inspired taste – it’s all here, ready to be devoured!

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this delightful dish is simple. Most items are likely already in your pantry, ensuring a quick and easy start to your culinary adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or 1.5 cups pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup mini pepperoni or sliced pepperoni, optional
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a sensational meal! Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Pizza Beans. This Pizza Beans Recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or prepare a large oven-safe skillet for stovetop-to-oven cooking.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes (or pizza sauce), dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), water or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the rinsed and drained beans to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. If using an oven-safe skillet, remove from heat. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the bean mixture. Arrange pepperoni (if using) on top.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If not baking, cover the skillet on the stovetop and cook on low heat until cheese is melted, or use a broiler for a minute or two if your skillet is oven-safe.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or as a side dish.

 

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Meat Lover’s Delight: Aside from pepperoni, consider crumbled cooked sausage, diced ham, or crispy bacon bits for a heartier dish.
• White Pizza Beans: Skip the tomato sauce and instead use a white sauce base made from béchamel, ricotta, or a cream cheese blend, seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs.
• Breakfast Pizza Beans: Top with a fried egg and serve alongside toast for a unique brunch option.

Reviews

See what others are saying about this incredibly easy and delicious dish!

• Sarah P. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My kids usually turn their noses up at beans, but they devoured these! The pizza flavor is spot on. A new family favorite for sure!”
• Mark L. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So simple, yet so satisfying. I added some leftover cooked chicken and it was a complete meal. Great for meal prep too!”
• Jessica R. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A fantastic quick meal! I wish I had thought of this sooner. Next time I’ll try adding some olives.”

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of beans?

A: Absolutely! Chickpeas, kidney beans, or even a mixed bean blend would work wonderfully in this recipe.

Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?                                                                                                        A: Yes, it freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Q: What can I serve with Pizza Beans?                                                                                            A: They are incredibly versatile! Serve them with crusty bread for dipping, over rice or pasta, alongside a simple green salad, or as a unique topping for baked potatoes.

Q: Can I make this vegan?                                                                                                                A: Easily! Just omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives. Ensure your pizza sauce is vegan-friendly.

Q: How can I make this spicier?                                                                                                       A: You can increase the red pepper flakes, add a dash of cayenne pepper, or stir in some finely diced jalapeños with the onions for an extra kick.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a remarkably simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that redefines weeknight comfort food. These Pizza Beans are a testament to how humble ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty side, or a family-friendly dinner, this Pizza Beans Recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings and make it your own. We’re confident this dish will become a cherished part of your culinary rotation!

Recipe Note

For an even richer flavor, let the sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes before adding the beans. This allows the spices to fully bloom and deepen the tomato base.