Dried Beef And Lima Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining tender lima beans, savory dried beef, and rich eggs, all baked to perfection. The dish offers a creamy texture with a savory, slightly smoky flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings that appreciate a nostalgic, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter or margarine in a skillet and brown the chopped onion in it.
- Add flour and milk to the skillet and stir until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked lima beans and dried beef in a baking dish.
- Add the chopped egg whites and lemon juice, then stir the mixture to combine.
- Sprinkle the chopped egg yolks on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of creams instead of milk, or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you can't find dried beef, substitute with cooked, shredded chicken or turkey. To save time, use canned lima beans instead of dried ones. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before baking, as the saltiness of the beef can vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Holiday Roast for a festive touch. For a comforting family dinner, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Beef And Lima Casserole contains roughly 438 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 8g 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for the dried beef?
If you prefer not to use dried beef, you can substitute it with cooked, shredded chicken, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning accordingly based on the substitute you choose.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven. It may need a few extra minutes to warm 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).