Lima Bean Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring tender lima beans baked with a savory blend of onions, green peppers, celery soup, and melted cheese. Topped with crispy bread crumbs, this dish offers rich flavors suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings, providing a satisfying vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion and green pepper in margarine.
- Cook the lima beans until tender and then drain.
- Add the cooked peppers, onions, and celery soup to the lima beans.
- Place the mixture in a greased casserole dish.
- Cover with bread crumbs and shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you want to add more veggies, try incorporating diced carrots or mushrooms. This dish can also be made vegetarian-friendly by ensuring the cheese is rennet-free. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Lima Bean Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or rolls. For a heartier dinner, serve it alongside roasted chicken or a savory meatloaf. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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 for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Bean Casserole contains roughly 380 calories, with 8g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 636mg per serving (28% 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 frozen lima beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen lima beans! Simply thaw and cook them according to package instructions before adding to the casserole. This will maintain the fresh flavor and nutritional value of the beans.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While shredded cheddar is a popular choice, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For a twist, try a blend of cheeses or even a sharp blue cheese for added flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bread crumbs and cheese right before baking to keep them crispy. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
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).