Lima Bean Surprise
A creamy, cheesy lima bean casserole topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck side dish with rich flavors and smooth texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Cheez Whiz with cream of mushroom soup and warm just enough to melt.
- Add the drained lima beans, pimentos, salt, and pepper into the mixture and combine well.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch glass dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers and dot with melted margarine.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the Cheez Whiz and soup mixture. If you want a bit of kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You can substitute the lima beans with cannellini beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor profile. Consider making this as part of a potluck, alongside other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Lima Bean Surprise is a fantastic side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. Pair it with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. It also goes well with other comfort foods like macaroni and cheese or baked chicken. Serve it warm, and consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Bean Surprise contains roughly 531 calories, with 11g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 711mg 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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh lima beans! If using fresh, make sure to cook them until tender before mixing them with the Cheez Whiz and soup. This will take about 20-30 minutes. Just ensure they are well-drained before adding to the mixture.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce made from melted cheddar cheese and a bit of cream. Alternatively, a vegan cheese sauce can be used for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold.
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).