Go Back
Hearty lima bean stew with tomatoes, olives, and seasonings in a bowl.

Lima Bean Stew with Meatballs

A hearty bean stew with tender lima beans simmered in savory broth with meatballs, offering a comforting and simple meal option.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2 cups lima beans, dried or frozen Dried beans should be soaked overnight.
  • 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes Add part of the tomatoes later if stew is too acidic.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Add to the meatballs for moisture.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Add fresh and/or garlic powder in the meatballs.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For smoky flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, etc.) Use lean meat and add moisture if needed.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk Or substitute with yogurt.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (oregano/basil) Use your preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes Optional for heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using dried lima beans, soak them overnight.
  2. Prepare meatball mixture by combining ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Italian herbs, black pepper, and chili flakes.
  3. Form meatballs into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cook until softened.
  2. Add soaked or frozen lima beans, broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Drop meatballs into the stew. Cover and let simmer for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the stew is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
  5. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Notes

To thicken stew, mash a scoop of beans and stir back in. Serve with crusty bread or rice for a comforting meal.