Pizza Beans Recipe

I love finding meals that taste indulgent but come together with minimal fuss, and this incredibly satisfying pizza beans recipe is exactly that!

Imagine the comforting aroma of rich tomato sauce and savory spices filling your kitchen, promising a hearty meal. This dish is the ultimate easy, family-friendly dinner solution, bringing classic pizza flavors to your table in a wholesome, plant-powered way. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when my family craves something warm and delicious, but I’m short on time. You’ll learn how to whip up this comforting meal, customize it, and even use it for clever meal prep.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients and Key Roles)

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this flavorful pizza beans recipe. We’ve combined classic pizza elements with unique twists to make it truly special.

• Extra virgin olive oil: 30 ml (2 tablespoons) — For sautéing our aromatics and adding richness.
• Medium yellow onion: 1, finely diced (about 180 g / 6.3 oz) — Forms the sweet and savory base.
• Garlic cloves: 3, minced (about 15 g / 0.5 oz) — Essential for that aromatic, robust flavor.
• Smoked paprika: 15 ml (1 tablespoon) — Adds a deep, smoky undertone that makes this pizza beans recipe unique.
• Dried oregano: 5 ml (1 teaspoon) — The quintessential ‘pizza’ herb for classic flavor.
• Ground sumac: 2.5 ml (½ teaspoon), plus extra for garnish — Provides a bright, tangy zing; I often buy it in bulk from a spice shop for best flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes: 794 g (28 ounces) — The heart of our rich, tomatoey sauce. Look for no-sugar-added varieties for healthier eating.
• Vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup) — Adds depth and moisture to the sauce (or water if that’s all you have).
• Cannellini beans: 2 cans (each 425 g / 15 ounces), rinsed and drained — Our hearty, high-protein base; cannellini or kidney beans work wonderfully here.
• Fresh lemon juice: 15 ml (1 tablespoon) — Brightens all the flavors in the beans.
• Fine sea salt: 5 ml (1 teaspoon), or to taste — Enhances all the ingredients.
• Freshly ground black pepper: 1.25 ml (¼ teaspoon), or to taste — For a touch of warmth.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (about 110 g) — For that classic melty, gooey pizza topping everyone loves.
• Fresh mint leaves: 30 g (½ cup), roughly chopped, for garnish — Adds vibrant freshness.
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley: 30 g (½ cup), roughly chopped, for garnish — Aromatic green garnish.
• Pine nuts: 40 g (⅓ cup), lightly toasted, for garnish — For a delightful textural crunch.
• Tahini: 45 ml (3 tablespoons) — Base for a creamy, zesty drizzle.
• Cold water: 30 ml (2 tablespoons) — To thin the tahini for drizzling.
• Additional fresh lemon juice: 5 ml (1 teaspoon), for tahini drizzle — Brightens the tahini sauce.

Smart swaps and optional upgrades for your pizza beans recipe:

Customize your dish for different tastes or what’s on hand. This is a truly versatile pizza beans recipe!

• Beans: Chickpeas can be used for a firmer, nuttier texture.
• Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Veggies: Sauté spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the onion for extra nutrition.
• Dairy-free option: Nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, or plant-based shredded cheese for a similar melt.

Health-focused or premium mentions:

Opt for low-sodium beans and no-sugar-added crushed tomatoes for a healthier take on this high-protein, fiber-rich meal. Prioritizing organic ingredients can also elevate the flavor profile.

Notes on sourcing:

Look for quality canned goods during sales to stock your pantry for quick meals. Fresh herbs make a difference, so grab them if you can.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Whipping up this satisfying pizza beans recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious, hearty meal.

1. Prep Your Aromatics: Heat 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 6-8 minutes, looking soft.
2. Build the Flavor Base: Add minced garlic, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) smoked paprika, 5 ml (1 teaspoon) dried oregano, and 2.5 ml (½ teaspoon) ground sumac. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant, filling your kitchen with aroma, avoiding burning.
3. Simmer the Sauce and Beans: Pour in 794 g (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes and 250 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth. Add rinsed cannellini beans, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 15-20 minutes, stirring, until sauce thickens and beans are creamy. If sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
4. Get Cheesy: Uncover the pot. Sprinkle 1 cup (110 g) shredded mozzarella cheese over the pizza beans recipe. Cook 3-5 minutes, or broil 1-2 minutes, until melted, bubbly, and golden.
5. Serve It Up: Ladle warm pizza beans recipe into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh mint, parsley, and toasted pine nuts for crunch. Add a final pinch of sumac. Serve hot for a comforting dinner.

Optional shortcuts or one-pot variations:

This pizza beans recipe is already quite quick, but to save even more time, use pre-minced garlic from a jar or a quality jarred pizza sauce instead of crushed tomatoes. The beauty is that everything happens in one large pot or a 10-inch Dutch oven for minimal cleanup!

Mini callouts for avoiding common mistakes:

Don’t overcook the beans; they’re already cooked, so you’re just heating them through and allowing them to soak up the delicious sauce. Ensure your sauce simmers gently to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pot.

Perfect Occasions and Pairings

Ideal for quick weekday dinners, cozy movie nights, simple gatherings, or easy lunch prep.

• Crusty or garlic bread for dipping.
• A simple green salad.
• Roasted broccoli or asparagus.
• As a topping for baked potatoes or polenta.
• Toppings: balsamic glaze, fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan.

Cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

Wellness and Everyday Benefits of Pizza Beans Recipe

This hearty pizza beans recipe is a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber for satiety and sustained energy, great for healthy eating.

• Budget-friendly family meals.
• Excellent for healthy meal prep ideas.
• High-fiber, protein-rich for weight-friendly eating.
• Easy dinners for busy weeknights.
• Naturally incorporates added veggies.

Customizing the Recipe for Your Needs

• Caramelize onions longer for deeper sweetness.
• Roast cherry tomatoes separately and add at the end for a burst of flavor.
• Use an immersion blender for a smoother sauce if desired.

For vegan pizza beans, use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast, ensuring vegan marinara. For keto/low-carb, add extra veggies and low-sugar marinara, serving over greens instead of bread.

Always check ingredient labels for allergens to ensure this family-friendly dish is safe for everyone.

Common Questions Answered

Is pizza beans recipe a healthy option?

Yes! This pizza beans recipe is packed with fiber and protein from beans. Boost its health by adding more vegetables and opting for low-sodium ingredients.

Can I freeze pizza beans recipe for later?

Absolutely! This pizza beans recipe freezes beautifully in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently for a quick future meal prep.

What’s the best substitute if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?

Provolone or an Italian cheese blend works great. For dairy-free, use a plant-based shred or a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast. I’ve found a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works in a pinch too.

How can I make this pizza beans recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use a spicy marinara for an extra kick in your pizza beans.

What kind of beans work best for pizza beans?

Cannellini or kidney beans are excellent choices for their creamy texture and ability to soak up flavor in this pizza beans recipe. Chickpeas also work well for a firmer bite.

Can I make pizza beans in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients (except cheese) in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours. Stir in cheese just before serving until melted for an easy dinner idea.

This easy pizza beans recipe brings comfort, nutrition, and ease to your family table. Don’t forget to save or pin this hearty, family-friendly meal prep recipe for future easy dinners!

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