Purple Hull Pea Casserole
A hearty Southern casserole featuring tender purple hull peas layered with fresh tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Topped with Parmesan cheese and crispy bacon, this dish offers a savory, smoky flavor profile perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It balances freshness with richness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a casserole dish, layer 2 cups of cooked purple hull peas, sliced tomatoes, sliced onion, and sliced bell peppers.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the layers.
- Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the layered vegetables.
- Place 6 slices of bacon on top of the cheese.
- Bake until the bacon is crispy and the onions are tender. You may need to place the casserole under the broiler to crisp the bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and bell peppers before layering to enhance their sweetness. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and use a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Additionally, feel free to substitute with fresh or canned tomatoes, depending on what's available.
Serving Suggestions
This Purple Hull Pea Casserole pairs beautifully with Honey'S Cabbage Slaw for a refreshing crunch. Serve it alongside cornbread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, ensuring they’re warmed evenly without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Purple Hull Pea Casserole contains roughly 55 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 626mg per serving (27% 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 purple hull peas instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen purple hull peas in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before layering. They will cook nicely in the casserole, and you'll have the same delicious flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese alternative, you can use cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy, making it suitable for vegan recipes.
How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the casserole for about 30-40 minutes at 375°F or until the bacon is crispy and the onions are tender. If the top isn't crispy enough, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
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).