Lima Bean And Asparagus Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining tender lima beans, crisp asparagus, and water chestnuts, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings with fresh flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lima beans according to package directions and drain.
- Alternate layers of cooked lima beans, asparagus, and sliced water chestnuts in a casserole dish.
- Mix mushroom soup and milk together.
- Pour the soup mixture over the layered vegetables.
- Top with grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a covered casserole at 300°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a richer cream of mushroom soup or adding a dollop of sour cream. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, any other cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack works well as a substitute. To add extra flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or onion powder between the layers. This dish can easily be adapted into vegetarian recipes by using vegetable broth instead of milk.
Serving Suggestions
This Lima Bean and Asparagus Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It's also a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. For an added touch, serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Consider enjoying this alongside other American recipes for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Bean And Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 443 calories, with 18g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% 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, fresh lima beans can be used. Just make sure to cook them until tender before layering in the casserole. This may take longer than the frozen variety, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own using gluten-free flour. Always check labels for canned ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated 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).