Go Back
–+ servings
Lima Beans with Bacon and Tomatoes
This comforting lima bean dish is a hearty Southern-style side or main, made with pantry staples like canned beans, stewed tomatoes, and onion. The rich flavor comes from sautéed onions cooked in bacon drippings, and the final touch of lemon pepper and chili powder adds a bright, smoky kick. Often served at casual family dinners, this recipe blends classic Southern soul food flavors with ease of preparation, making it a beloved go-to for a quick and filling meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6
Calories 205 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6-7 slices bacon
  • 1 onion (medium, chopped)
  • 14.5 oz stewed tomatoes
  • 45 oz Del Monte lima beans (3 cans, rinsed and drained)
  • lemon (to taste)
  • pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (or to taste)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  • Fry the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and crumble. Set aside.
  • Leave 2–3 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

  • Add the chopped onion to the drippings.
  • Cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer Tomatoes

  • Add the stewed tomatoes to the skillet.
  • Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add Beans

  • Stir in the rinsed lima beans.
  • Simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Top with crumbled bacon.
  • Season with lemon, pepper and chili powder to taste.
  • Serve warm.

Tips

  • Add minced garlic when sautéing the onions for extra flavor.
  • Use smoked bacon or thick-cut bacon for deeper smokiness.
  • Substitute crushed tomatoes for a saucier version.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for spicy heat.
  • Stir in chopped bell peppers when cooking the onions.
  • Use fresh or frozen lima beans instead of canned (adjust simmer time).
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end.
  • Replace bacon with smoked turkey for a lighter dish.
  • Serve over rice to turn it into a main course.

Nutrition

Calories: 205kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 9gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 690mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 2mg
Keyword bacon, easy side dish, lima beans, southern comfort food, tomato beans, vintage recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!