Bobbi'S Lima Bean Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender lima beans, savory meatballs, and creamy sour cream, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Cook lima beans according to package instructions, then drain.
- Soak bread slices in milk, then squeeze out excess milk.
- In a bowl, mix salt, egg, and finely chopped garlic.
- Combine ground beef with bread and egg mixture using a fork.
- Shape mixture into walnut-sized meatballs.
- Fry meatballs in 1 tablespoon butter until browned.
- Transfer browned meatballs to the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Pour water into the skillet used for frying, stir, then pour over meatballs.
- Season cooked beans with salt, pepper, and butter, then pour over meatballs.
- Bake the casserole for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spoon sour cream over the top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle paprika on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. If you don't have frozen lima beans, canned ones will work; just rinse them well. Instead of bread, consider using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to bind the mixture. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor. This casserole is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
This Lima Bean Casserole is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavors. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a scoop of mashed potatoes or rice, which complement the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bobbi'S Lima Bean Casserole contains roughly 856 calories, with 16g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2068mg per serving (90% 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. Assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that will add creaminess and a bit of tang. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese, just soften it a bit before mixing.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, and reheat as directed.
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).