Asparagus And English Pea Casserole
A flavorful casserole combining tender asparagus, peas, and mushrooms topped with crispy bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish with a cheesy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen asparagus and peas according to package directions, omitting salt.
- Drain the asparagus and peas, reserving 3/4 cup of the asparagus cooking liquid.
- Cut the cooked asparagus into 2-inch pieces.
- In a casserole dish sprayed with vegetable cooking spray, combine the asparagus, peas, and drained mushrooms.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine, then stir in the flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add the reserved asparagus cooking liquid and milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Cheez Whiz until melted and smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetable mixture in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the Italian bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream in place of some milk. If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can substitute fresh asparagus and peas; just adjust cooking times accordingly. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor. For a crunchier topping, mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the Italian bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also works well as a vegetarian main dish, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks. To explore other options, browse more vegetarian recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And English Pea Casserole contains roughly 293 calories, with 8g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1243mg per serving (54% 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 fresh asparagus instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh asparagus for frozen. Just make sure to trim and cut it into 2-inch pieces, then blanch it briefly in boiling water until tender before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure the asparagus maintains its vibrant color and flavor.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese option, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or a homemade cheese sauce. This will provide a similar creamy texture and cheesy flavor while allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and use gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the Cheez Whiz, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).