California Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring lima beans, crispy bacon, and savory bread crumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with rich flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lima beans according to package directions and drain.
- Crisp-fry the bacon slices.
- Saute chopped onions in bacon drippings.
- Blend in condensed cheese soup, sour cream, cooked beans, and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Top the beans with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture before baking. You can substitute Fordhook lima beans with frozen or canned lima beans to save time. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for added flavor. Season the dish with garlic powder or onion powder for a more robust taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this California Cheese Casserole as a hearty main dish or a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Red Skin Potato Salad for a complete meal. For added crunch, consider serving with a side of steamed broccoli or a light coleslaw, which can balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Cheese Casserole contains roughly 454 calories, with 13g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 934mg per serving (41% 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 ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add the bread crumbs right before baking to maintain their crispiness.
What can I use instead of condensed cheese soup?
If you don't have condensed cheese soup, you can make a homemade version by combining a cheese sauce made from melted cheddar cheese, milk, and a thickener like flour or cornstarch. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until warmed 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).