Dinner

Pizza Beans Skillet Recipe

ByHarry Bern February 26, 2026February 26, 2026

Introduction

Pizza Beans Skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the comforting taste of tomato sauce with creamy cannellini beans and melted cheese. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something simple yet delicious.

This image shows a round black pan with a red handle holding a dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is a thick red tomato sauce with chunks and white beans scattered throughout; the middle layer is a bright layer of melted cheese covering the sauce with gooey stringy texture where a slice is being lifted by a woman's hand, showing cheese stretching in long strands; on top, there are a few fresh green basil leaves placed evenly around the dish. The pan is set on a white marbled surface with small bowls of red pepper flakes and parmesan cheese in the background. 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 and rinsed
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Fresh basil leaves, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Pour the whole tomatoes and their juices into a large bowl. Using clean hands, tear the tomatoes into about 1/2-inch pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until it darkens and starts to stick to the bottom of the skillet, 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the torn tomatoes, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly, about 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and add granulated sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
Step 4: Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 1 to 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
Step 5: Preheat the broiler to high. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the beans. Broil, watching carefully, until the cheese is bubbling and browned, 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from the broiler and top with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms along with the beans.
Use crushed tomatoes instead of whole tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
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 over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. To refresh the cheese topping, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella and broil briefly before serving.