Sometimes, you need a dinner idea that’s easy, comforting, and irresistibly delicious. Enter 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans, a recipe so simple that even the busiest weeknight can feel special. With just three pantry staples—beans, marinara sauce, and cheese—you can create a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in about 20 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or cozying up for a solo dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans

If you’re a fan of effortless meals that don’t skimp on flavor, pizza beans are for you. Here’s why they’re about to become your new favorite dinner idea:

• Quick and easy: You only need three ingredients and 20 minutes.
• Budget-friendly: Beans, marinara, and cheese are affordable staples.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Kid-approved: The cheesy, saucy goodness is a hit with all ages.
• Great for leftovers: Pizza beans taste just as good reheated.

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans

To make this dish, you’ll need the following:

• Beans: Two 15-ounce cans of cannellini beans or butter beans, drained and rinsed.
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups of jarred marinara sauce (Rao’s is a popular choice, but any brand works).
• Cheese: At least 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, pizza cheese blend, or a mix of cheeses like ricotta and Parmesan for extra richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F. This gives you enough time to prep the dish while the oven heats up.

2. Prepare the Beans and Sauce

• Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess sodium and liquid.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the beans with 2 cups of marinara sauce. Stir gently to coat the beans evenly.

3. Assemble the Dish

• Spread the bean and sauce mixture into a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. For extra creaminess, dollop about 1/2 cup of ricotta throughout the dish before adding the shredded cheese.

4. Add Optional Toppings

This is where you can get creative! Popular toppings include:

• Pepperoni slices
• Crumbled cooked sausage
• Sliced red onions
• Banana peppers
• Anchovies
• Fresh basil leaves

5. Bake

• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the pizza beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
• Pair with garlic bread, focaccia, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Customizing Your Pizza Beans

1. Experiment with Cheeses

• Use smoked mozzarella for a hint of smokiness or swap in cheddar for a tangy twist.

2. Try Different Beans

• Chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans can be used for variety.

3. Boost the Veggies

• Add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. Spice It Up

• Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a spicy kick.

What to Serve with Pizza Beans

Pizza beans are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Bread: Garlic bread, focaccia, or crusty French bread to scoop up the sauce.
• Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette or a Caesar salad complements the rich flavors.
• Vegetables: Sautéed broccoli rabe, spinach, or roasted zucchini are excellent additions.
• Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with this dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

FAQs About 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans

1. Can I make pizza beans ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover pizza beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

3. Can I freeze pizza beans?

Absolutely. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What’s the best way to reheat pizza beans?

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

5. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and ensure your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly.

6. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Of course! Homemade marinara adds a personal touch and allows you to control the flavors.

Conclusion: Make 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans Tonight!

With just three simple ingredients and endless customization options, 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans are a dinner winner for any night of the week. They’re quick, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging solo.

Gather your beans, marinara, and cheese, and let the magic happen. Your oven is waiting—give this recipe a try and see why pizza beans are the ultimate comfort food!

Merry

Easy Pizza Beans for Dinner

When you need a quick and satisfying dinner that delivers big on flavor, 3-Ingredient Pizza Beans are the perfect choice. With just beans, marinara sauce, and cheese, you can create a warm, gooey, and delicious meal that feels like comfort in a bowl. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• Two 15-ounce cans of cannellini or butter beans drained and rinsed
• 2 cups jarred marinara sauce such as Rao’s or your favorite brand
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or pizza cheese blend
• Optional: 1/2 cup ricotta cheese for extra creaminess

Method

 

Preheat the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the beans and sauce:

1. Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess liquid.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the beans with the marinara sauce. Stir to coat the beans evenly.

Assemble the dish:

1. Spread the bean and sauce mixture into a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If using ricotta, dollop it throughout the dish before adding the shredded cheese.

Add toppings (optional):

1. Customize your pizza beans with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni slices, cooked sausage, sliced red onions, banana peppers, or fresh basil.

Bake the pizza beans:

1. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Serve and enjoy:

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Pair with garlic bread, focaccia, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Customizations: Swap mozzarella with cheddar, Parmesan, or smoked provolone for different flavor profiles.
• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through. Pizza beans also make a delicious topping for garlic toast!
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and ensure your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly for a plant-based version.
• Freezing: Pizza beans can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

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