Green Lima Bean Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring tender lima beans, fresh vegetables, and crispy bacon, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil lima beans and whole onion until beans are tender. Drain; chop onion and return to beans.
- Add chopped green pepper, chopped celery, and tomato sauce to the beans and onion mixture.
- Mix well and pour into a casserole dish.
- Top with raw bacon slices.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes, watching that bacon does not burn.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the casserole. You can substitute fresh lima beans for frozen, but adjust cooking time accordingly. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely. This dish pairs nicely with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Lima Bean Casserole makes a great side dish for a family gathering or potluck. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a nice creaminess to the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, just be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Lima Bean Casserole contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. 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 canned lima beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use canned lima beans for convenience. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the casserole. Reduce the boiling time as canned beans are already cooked; you can skip this step and mix them directly with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Green Lima Bean Casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure any added ingredients, like bacon or sauces, are certified gluten-free. Additionally, check labels on all packaged items to avoid hidden gluten.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as roasted meats or a fresh garden salad. You might also enjoy it alongside classic American recipes like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a comforting meal.
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).