Asparagus And Ham
Creamy asparagus and ham casserole with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings that highlight savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the asparagus and layer it in a buttered 8x8-inch baking dish.
- Add the diced ham, mushroom soup, grated cheddar cheese, and bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly, about 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh asparagus instead of canned. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham works well as a substitute for diced ham. You can also add a layer of sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra taste. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try mixing the bread crumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling them on top.
Serving Suggestions
This Asparagus and Ham dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad like Mildred'S Salad or some roasted potatoes. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light vegetable side to round out the meal. It's perfect for a family dinner or as a satisfying side for a gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 1-2 minutes depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And Ham contains roughly 485 calories, with 29g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1370mg per serving (60% 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 asparagus instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before layering it in the baking dish. Frozen asparagus may have a different texture than canned, but it will still provide great flavor.
What can I use if I don't have mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using cream, sautéed mushrooms, and seasoning. This will maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile of the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the diced ham and replace the mushroom soup with a vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture.
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).