Cheesy Lima Bean Casserole
A creamy, cheesy lima bean casserole with a crunchy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks, featuring tender beans, melted cheddar, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain lima beans, reserving 1/2 cup of liquid from the can.
- Pour beans, reserved liquid, chopped celery, onion powder, pepper, mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of grated Cheddar cheese into a greased casserole dish.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Dot the mixture with small pieces of margarine or butter.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Spread crushed crackers evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of mayonnaise. If you're looking to add more flavor, sauté the celery with garlic before mixing it into the casserole. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese for a sharper variety or a blend for added complexity. For a crunchier topping, try adding crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs instead of crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheesy Lima Bean Casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, try it with rice or quinoa for a satisfying dinner. Consider serving it with bread rolls to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Lima Bean Casserole contains roughly 222 calories, with 12g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen lima beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen lima beans. Cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the casserole. Just be sure to drain any excess water to keep the casserole from becoming too watery.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the crushed crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free corn chips. Ensure that all other ingredients, like mayonnaise and cheese, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to add the topping just before baking to keep it crispy.
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).