What if you could enjoy all the pizza flavors in a warm, comforting, and cheesy dish—without the dough? Enter pizza beans. This dish combines rich marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, and hearty white beans, creating a satisfying, protein-packed alternative to traditional pizza. Inspired by Smitten Kitchen’s take on baked beans, this recipe delivers a savory, cheesy, and easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights.
Besides being delicious and nutritious, this dish is also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite pizza toppings, serve it with garlic bread, toast, or even pasta, and make it ahead for meal prep. Whether you’re a bean enthusiast or simply looking for a cozy dinner option, this cheesy pizza bean recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Table of Contents
What Are Pizza Beans and Why Are They So Popular?
At first glance, pizza beans might sound unusual. However, once you try them, you’ll understand the hype. This dish takes classic pizza flavors—like garlic, oregano, tomato sauce, and mozzarella—and infuses them into soft, creamy white beans, resulting in a hearty and comforting dish.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
- Full of Pizza Flavor – The combination of crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and herbs gives this dish an authentic pizzeria taste.
- Perfectly Cheesy – Mozzarella and parmesan melt beautifully over the savory bean mixture, creating that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Nutritious and Filling—Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, making this meal balanced and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy—This dish comes together in under 30 minutes Using canned beans and a simple homemade sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for leftovers or freezer meals.
If you’re someone who loves beans, this recipe is a must-try. Even if you’re skeptical, the pizza-like taste will win you over.
Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients. Most are pantry staples, meaning you can whip up this dish anytime.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White beans (cannellini or butter beans) | 2 cans (or 1.5 cups dried, cooked) | Use canned beans for convenience. |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (28 oz) | The base for the savory pizza sauce. |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1.5 cups | For the gooey, melty top. |
| Grated parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Adds extra savory depth. |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Enhances the rich pizza flavor. |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing the garlic. |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | Adds a spicy kick (optional). |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | A key ingredient for the classic pizza taste. |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Essential for seasoning. |
| Fresh basil | ¼ cup, chopped | Optional, for garnish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sauté the garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the beans and cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring they are fully coated in the pizza sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the beans generously with shredded mozzarella and parmesan.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Best Beans to Use for Pizza Beans
Although this dish works with many types of beans, some yield better results than others.
1. Best Beans for This Recipe
- Cannellini beans are soft and creamy, soaking up the flavors well.
- Butter beans are slightly firmer and add texture.
- Gigante beans – Perfect for a heartier bite.
2. Dried vs. Canned Beans
If you have time, dried beans provide a superior texture. To prepare:
- Soak beans overnight in water.
- Simmer the beans for about 1 hour until tender.
- Drain and use as directed.
For a quicker option, use canned beans—just rinse and drain them well before adding them to the recipe.
How to Customize Your Pizza Beans
One of the best things about pizza beans is their incredible versatility.
1. Add Classic Pizza Toppings
Enhance the pizza experience by mixing in:
- Pepperoni slices for a bold, meaty flavor.
- Sautéed mushrooms and onions for a rich, umami taste.
- Black olives and green peppers for a Mediterranean touch.
2. Make It Spicy
- Add more red pepper flakes.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or chili oil.
3. Make It a Full Meal
- Serve over pasta for a cheesy, saucy meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting side.
How to Achieve the Perfect Crispy Cheese Topping
For those who love a crispy top, follow these simple tricks:
- Use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan—the combination creates the perfect crispy, cheesy crust.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cheese before baking.
- Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking.
What to Serve with Pizza Beans
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread – A classic choice for scooping up the sauce.
- Toasted sourdough – Adds a nice crunch.
- Side salad – A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the meal.
Can You Freeze Pizza Beans?
Yes! Pizza beans freeze well and are perfect for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How to Make Pizza Beans Step-by-Step
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s explore the process of making perfect pizza beans every time.
1. How to Layer Flavors for Maximum Taste
The best pizza beans should be rich, cheesy, and deeply flavorful. Follow these expert techniques to elevate the dish:
- Sauté aromatics properly – Instead of quickly frying the garlic, cook it on low heat for at least 5 minutes to develop a sweet, caramelized depth.
- Toast the spices – Before adding the tomatoes, toast the oregano and red pepper flakes in oil for 30 seconds. This releases their natural oils and intensifies the flavor.
- Use high-quality tomatoes. San Marzano canned tomatoes create the richest, most flavorful sauce. Their natural sweetness balances acidity.
- Simmer longer for depth—If time allows, Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes. This thickens the base and deepens the umami notes.
2. How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
The texture of pizza beans is just as important as the flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mash some beans – Mash about ¼ of the beans with a fork before baking. This creates a thicker, creamier sauce while keeping some beans whole for texture.
- Don’t overcook the cheese—If you bake the cheese too long, it will become rubbery. Instead, bake until melted, then broil for 2 minutes for a golden-brown crust.
- Use full-fat cheese – Low-fat versions don’t melt as well, leading to a grainy texture. Always choose whole-milk mozzarella and fresh parmesan for the best results.
Pro Tips & Creative Variations
1. Add Protein for a Heartier Dish
If you want to make pizza beans even more satisfying, try adding:
- Crumbled Italian sausage – Sauté before adding the beans for a bold, meaty flavor.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken – Stir in just before baking for an easy, protein-packed meal.
- Ground beef or turkey – Brown with onions and garlic for a classic pizza topping twist.
2. Experiment with Cheese Combinations
Although mozzarella is traditional, mixing different cheeses can enhance the dish:
- Sharp cheddar – Adds a deeper, tangy bite.
- Smoked gouda – Introduces a light smokiness.
- Fontina or provolone – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture.
3. Make It a Complete Meal
Pair pizza beans with different sides to create a full, well-balanced dinner:
- Serve with a fresh salad – Arugula, spinach, or a simple Caesar salad cuts through the richness.
- Pair with crusty bread – Garlic bread or toasted sourdough is perfect for scooping up sauce.
- Try over grains – Serve on top of quinoa, brown rice, or polenta for added texture.
4. Spice It Up
If you love bold flavors, try these spicy add-ins:
- Drizzle chili oil or hot honey on top for a sweet-heat contrast.
- Mix in diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Use spicy pepperoni or chorizo instead of mild meats.
What to Eat with Pizza Beans?
Best Side Dishes
While pizza beans are delicious on their own, they pair well with:
- Crusty garlic bread – The perfect dipping companion.
- Roasted vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant complement the dish beautifully.
- A light soup – Minestrone or tomato basil soup makes a cozy pairing.
How to Turn Pizza Beans into a Main Course
Transform pizza beans into a full meal with these ideas:
- Serve over pasta – Toss with penne or rigatoni for a pizza-style baked pasta.
- Stuff into bell peppers – Bake inside hollowed-out red bell peppers for a low-carb option.
- Top with a fried egg – A runny yolk adds richness to the dish.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Pizza Beans
Where Did Pizza Beans Originate?
The concept of pizza beans was popularized by Smitten Kitchen, but it takes inspiration from Mediterranean and Italian baked bean dishes. The idea of combining white beans with tomato sauce and cheese has roots in traditional Greek and Italian cuisine.
Can You Freeze Pizza Beans?
Yes! Pizza beans store exceptionally well, making them ideal for meal prep:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 375°F oven or microwave until hot.
Does Mexican Pizza Have Beans?
Yes, Mexican pizza uses refried beans, whereas pizza beans use white beans in a marinara-style sauce. Mexican pizza is typically made with tortillas, ground beef, and cheddar cheese, while pizza beans have an Italian flavor profile.
How Can I Make Pizza Beans Vegan?
For a plant-based version, try:
Using vegan cheese – Brands like Violife and Miyoko’s melt well.
Skipping parmesan – Nutritional yeast adds a similar savory depth.
Adding extra veggies – Mushrooms, kale, and roasted red peppers work beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Pizza Beans?
Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Pizza beans are the perfect combination of pizza flavors and hearty baked beans. They’re cheesy, comforting, and packed with protein, making them an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you serve them alone, over pasta, or with crusty bread, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.
Try this easy recipe today, and don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite toppings. After all, pizza beans are all about making comfort food your own!
