Pizza Beans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Roughly mash about ½ cup of the drained beans with a fork in a small bowl; set aside (optional but thickens the sauce nicely).
2. Heat olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Add onion and ¼ tsp salt. Cook, stirring often, until tender, 3–5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, until garlic edges turn golden, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in tomato paste (watch for splatters). Scrape up browned bits; cook 30 seconds, reducing heat to prevent burning.
5. If using spinach, add half, stir until bright and wilted, then repeat with the rest.
6. Add all beans (including mashed), water, and remaining ¼ tsp salt. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer on the stovetop.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer skillet to oven and bake until cheese is nicely melted, 7–9 minutes.
8. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with basil if using.