Three Cheese Pizza Beans
Introduction
If you’re a fan of pizza and beans, then this recipe is a match made in heaven for you. Three Cheese Pizza Beans is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic pizza with the comfort of beans. This recipe is perfect for those times when you want something filling and flavorful without all the effort of making a traditional pizza. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, Three Cheese Pizza Beans is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To make Three Cheese Pizza Beans, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of diced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
To make Three Cheese Pizza Beans, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, combine the white beans, marinara sauce, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to ensure the beans are coated in the sauce and herbs.
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the bean mixture.
4. Scatter the diced pepperoni evenly over the cheese.
5. Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and parsley over the top of the melted cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the Three Cheese Pizza Beans hot with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.
Variations
There are several ways to customize and experiment with this Three Cheese Pizza Beans recipe. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Vegetarian option: Omit the diced pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions are great additions.
2. Spicy twist: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick.
3. Meat lovers’ version: If you’re a fan of meat, you can add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or bacon to the dish along with the pepperoni.
4. Cheesy goodness: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Try adding some shredded Gouda or Fontina cheese for extra flavor.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the best Three Cheese Pizza Beans:
1. Make sure to drain and rinse the canned white beans before using them in the recipe. This helps remove any excess salt and liquid.
2. Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can either make your own or choose a store-bought brand that you enjoy.
3. Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference. If you’re a cheese lover, you can add more or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
4. Don’t skip the fresh herbs. The chopped fresh basil and parsley add a burst of freshness to the dish and elevate the flavors.
5. Serve the Three Cheese Pizza Beans with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Three Cheese Pizza Beans is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the flavors of pizza and beans. With its gooey melted cheese, hearty beans, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, Three Cheese Pizza Beans is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of pizza in a whole new way.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of beans?
A: Yes, you can use other types of beans such as cannellini beans or pinto beans if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Three Cheese Pizza Beans ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.