Baked Bean And Sausage Casserole
A hearty baked bean and sausage casserole featuring savory sausage, smoky ham, and a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook frozen lima beans for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Mix lima beans with canned baked beans and drained kidney beans.
- Place sausage in a skillet, add a small amount of water, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain the sausage and pan-fry until browned. Do not prick the sausages.
- Cut each sausage into 2 or 3 pieces.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix sausage, ham, and beans together in a large bowl.
- Combine salt, pepper, dry mustard, tomato sauce, catsup, brown sugar, and chopped onion to make the sauce.
- Add the sauce to the bean mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a 3-quart baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the bean mixture. You can substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option or use vegetarian sausage for a meat-free dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This casserole is versatile and can easily include other beans like pinto or black beans.
Serving Suggestions
This baked bean and sausage casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of corn on the cob or baked potatoes. It's a perfect dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Bean And Sausage Casserole contains roughly 571 calories, with 18g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1105mg per serving (48% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it without baking, cover, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it at the recommended temperature until heated through, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I substitute the beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for lima, baked, and kidney beans, you can use any combination of beans you prefer. Black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work well in this dish, allowing you to customize it to your taste or based on what you have on hand.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This hearty casserole is great on its own, but for a balanced meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. It also pairs nicely with cornbread or garlic bread, making it a comforting option for family dinners or casual gatherings.
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).