Bake Baby Lima Beans
Baked baby lima beans with bacon and sweet, smoky flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with a rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the beans set overnight in water.
- Cook the beans until tender.
- Add bacon, molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, salt, sugar, and catsup to taste.
- Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until flavors meld and top is slightly caramelized.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with liquid smoke or a plant-based bacon alternative. To save time, use canned baby lima beans, but reduce the baking time since they are already cooked. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of molasses and brown sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve baked baby lima beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. They pair beautifully with Breaded Dijon Pork Chops or a fresh Country Salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with cornbread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked baby lima beans to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beans in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bake Baby Lima Beans contains roughly 493 calories, with 5g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 830mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?
While baby lima beans are recommended for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other beans like navy or pinto beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are tender before baking.
Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and aids in digestion. However, if you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and then letting them sit for an hour before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or increase baking time slightly if starting from cold.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).