Dinner

Pizza Beans Skillet Recipe

ByElena Hart March 4, 2026March 4, 2026

Introduction

This Pizza Beans Skillet is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines hearty cannellini beans with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a warm bean stew featuring plump white beans in a rich red tomato sauce, topped with melted white cheese that stretches softly across the surface, and sprinkled with small bits of a light crumbly topping. Three bright green fresh basil leaves are placed on top, adding a pop of color. A toasted triangular piece of golden-brown bread is partially dipped in the stew, resting on the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft natural lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (28-oz.) can whole tomatoes
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 Tbsp. tomato paste

1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1 tsp. (or more) kosher salt
1/2 tsp. granulated sugar (optional)
2 (14.5-oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained, rinsed

1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Fresh basil leaves, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Pour tomatoes and their juices into a large bowl. Using clean hands, tear the tomatoes into about 1/2″ pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until darkened and starting to stick to the bottom of the skillet, 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the reserved tomatoes, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is reduced and slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and add granulated sugar for more sweetness if needed.

Step 4: Stir in the drained cannellini beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes more. Season with additional salt if needed.
Step 5: Preheat your broiler to high. Top the beans with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Broil, watching closely, until the cheese is bubbling and browned, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from the broiler and top with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.
Add sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage for a meaty twist.
Swap cannellini beans for great northern or navy beans if preferred.

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a heartier meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. The dish may lose some crispness after refrigeration but will still be delicious.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with a thick layer of red tomato sauce and white baked beans covering the bottom. On top of the beans and sauce, there is a melted layer of creamy white cheese with some red pepper flakes sprinkled evenly. A slice of toasted bread with a crispy golden-brown crust is lifted by a woman's hand from the plate, showing gooey melted cheese stretching from the bread to the plate. A fresh green basil leaf sits on top of the melted cheese on the bread. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use about 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes in place of the canned ones. Cook them down a little longer during the simmering step to develop flavor and reduce excess liquid.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely. This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written. Just be sure to use cheese made without animal rennet if strict vegetarian ingredients are desired.