Lima-Bacon Bake
A hearty baked lima bean dish with crispy bacon, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and savory onion, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lima beans in 1 1/2 cups boiling salted water for 15 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup liquid.
- Fry bacon until about half cooked. Drain on paper towels.
- Keep 3 tablespoons of bacon fat.
- Saute chopped onion in bacon fat until soft.
- Toss together cooked lima beans, sautéed onion, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and reserved bean liquid.
- Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle cooked bacon on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon and cooking it until crispy before adding to the casserole. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you prefer a healthier option, try using turkey bacon and adding diced bell peppers or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of hearty American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lima-Bacon Bake alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Crustless Sausage-Apple Quiche for a delightful brunch spread. For a heartier option, consider adding roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lima-Bacon Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima-Bacon Bake contains roughly 394 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 702mg per serving (31% 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 lima beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh lima beans, but be sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the casserole. Fresh beans may require longer cooking time compared to frozen ones, so adjust the boiling time accordingly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for added flavor. You can enhance the dish with a splash of liquid smoke to mimic the taste of bacon.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Lima-Bacon Bake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
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).