Luxury Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole with green beans, lima beans, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings seeking comfort and classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the French cut string beans and cooked lima beans, then spread them in a large shallow casserole dish.
- Mix salt, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, pimentos, and chopped, lightly browned onions together.
- Pour the mixture over the beans in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the cheese with dressing mix (bread crumbs).
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced cooked bacon or ham to the casserole. You can substitute regular cheddar with smoked cheddar for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise. Additionally, using fresh green beans instead of canned can enhance the texture. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, especially if your dressing mix is already salted.
Serving Suggestions
This Luxury Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. It makes for an excellent side dish at potlucks or family gatherings, complementing main dishes like Judy'S Baked Chicken or other chicken recipes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps maintain the casserole's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Luxury Casserole contains roughly 495 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1871mg per serving (81% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and helps the casserole heat through properly.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup. Additionally, making your own cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, and broth can give a fresher taste. Just ensure the consistency is similar to that of the canned soups for the best results.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. For baked casseroles, let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.
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).