Ham And Bean Casserole
A hearty ham and bean casserole featuring tender lima beans, diced ham, and a savory tomato sauce, baked to perfection with a crunchy topping—ideal for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onions in butter until tender.
- Add flour, salt, pepper, and tomatoes; cook and stir until thickened.
- Add lima beans and diced ham; heat through.
- Pour mixture into a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle crumbs around the outside of the top.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or cream after thickening the tomato mixture. You can substitute the lima beans with great northern or navy beans for a different texture. If you're short on time, use canned tomatoes with herbs for added flavor. This dish also pairs well with a side salad or cornbread for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This ham and bean casserole is delicious served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For added crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking. It also pairs nicely with cornbread or buttery rolls, making for a comforting and filling meal. For a sweet finish, consider serving with Wonderful Brownies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Bean Casserole contains roughly 927 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1768mg per serving (77% 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 use fresh beans instead of canned lima beans?
Yes, you can use fresh beans, but they will require cooking beforehand. Boil them until tender and then add them to the casserole. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of beans you choose.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of butter for a lighter flavor while maintaining the heartiness of the dish.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).