Microwave Baked Lima Beans
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender butter beans cooked with smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and fresh green peppers. Perfect for a comforting meal, this microwave-baked lima beans recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy rich, savory flavors with minimal fuss, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a 3-quart microwave-safe casserole dish nearby.
- Cook bacon until crispy and crumble into small pieces.
- Chop onion and green pepper.
- Add butter beans, chopped onion, green pepper, bacon, molasses, and Heinz ketchup to the casserole.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the casserole with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. You can also replace butter beans with other varieties like navy or cannellini beans if needed. Adjust the sweetness by varying the molasses or ketchup to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also complements grilled meats, making it a great side for summer barbecues. Consider serving it alongside American recipes like Grandma'S Goulash for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Baked Lima Beans contains roughly 180 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 canned lima beans instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can substitute canned lima beans for dried ones. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the casserole. Reduce the cooking time to about 10 minutes in the microwave, as they are already cooked.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Both will add sweetness, but will slightly alter the flavor profile. Adjust the amount to taste for the desired sweetness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then microwave it when you're ready to serve. Just give it a good stir before heating to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
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).