Lima Bean-Tomato Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender lima beans, flavorful tomatoes, and a crispy bread topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich, savory, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter; add chopped onion and cook about 5 minutes.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add tomatoes and mix thoroughly.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add drained lima beans and heat until bubbling.
- Pour mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Spread bread rounds with remaining butter or toss crumbs with melted butter.
- Place bread rounds or crumbs in a border around the casserole.
- Broil about 10 minutes or until bread is delicately browned.
- Alternatively, heat in a 425°F oven.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or basil to the onion mixture. You can substitute lima beans with other beans like cannellini or navy beans if needed. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or crumbs. This dish is also versatile; feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served as a main dish or as a hearty side. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also complements crusty bread or cornbread. For a unique twist, serve alongside the Cherry Minute Crisp for dessert, creating a delightful end to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. For best results, avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Bean-Tomato Casserole contains roughly 1238 calories, with 32g protein, 238g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1488mg per serving (65% 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. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the casserole. Cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they're heated through before serving.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure the bread or crumbs are vegan. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this a perfect dish for vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions. You can also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick.
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).