Description
This delicious Pizza Beans recipe combines hearty white beans with classic pizza flavors like marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh veggies. Baked until bubbly and topped with fresh basil, it’s a quick and comforting dish perfect for a warm, savory meal served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Beans and Sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- ¾ cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese and Toppings
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small tomato, sliced (optional)
- ¼ small green pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the beans evenly and melting the cheese perfectly.
- Prepare the Beans: In a 10-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet, combine the drained white beans with marinara sauce, half of the dried oregano (½ teaspoon), and the garlic powder. Stir well to coat the beans in the sauce and seasonings.
- Add Toppings: Spread the bean mixture into an even layer. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced tomato (if using), green pepper, black olives, the remaining half teaspoon of oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is fully melted and golden in spots.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and finish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping and enjoying alongside.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the bean mixture before baking.
- This recipe works well with other types of white beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans.
- To make it vegan, substitute the cheeses with vegan mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete, balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
