Cheesy Lima Beans
Cheesy Lima Beans is a comforting casserole featuring tender green lima beans complemented by cheddar cheese, celery, and a creamy mayonnaise mixture. Topped with crunchy crackers and melted cheese, it's a savory side dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the lima beans, reserving 1/2 cup of the liquid from the can.
- In a greased casserole dish, combine the beans, reserved liquid, chopped celery, onion powder, pepper, mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of the cheese. Stir to mix well.
- Dot the mixture with butter or margarine.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
- Spread the crushed cheese crackers over all.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Make sure to grease the casserole dish well to prevent sticking. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a side for American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Lima Beans alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Fresh Blueberry Cobbler for dessert. For a complete spread, consider adding a simple green salad or cornbread to round out the flavors and textures of your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the texture may be softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Lima Beans contains roughly 965 calories, with 11g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 fresh lima beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh lima beans if you prefer. Cook them until tender before mixing them with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the cooking time since fresh beans may take longer to cook compared to canned.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cheese crackers?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free cheese crackers at most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour. Just ensure that any substitutions you make are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cheese and cracker topping right before baking. This will save you time on busy days and allow the flavors to meld together.
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).