Baked Butter Bean Casserole
A hearty baked casserole featuring tender butter beans, savory tomato soup, and crispy bacon, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato soup, drained butter beans, and juice from one can of butter beans.
- Brown hamburger; drain excess fat and add to the bean mixture.
- Add chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and chopped bacon to the mixture.
- Place the mixture in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. If you're short on time, you can substitute canned bacon pieces for fresh bacon. The recipe can also be enhanced with spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the hamburger for plant-based meat or omit it entirely and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Butter Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. You can also top it with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist. It’s a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Butter Bean Casserole contains roughly 1886 calories, with 13g protein, 431g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute butter beans with other beans like navy beans or cannellini beans. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed well. Different beans will slightly alter the flavor and texture but can provide a delicious twist to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the hamburger and replace it with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables. You can also enhance the flavor with more herbs and spices to make it just as satisfying without the meat.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you're baking it straight from the fridge, as it may take a little longer to heat through.
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).