Asparagus And Pea Casserole
A creamy asparagus and pea casserole with a cheesy, crunchy topping, perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion. The combination of tender asparagus, green peas, mushrooms, and sharp cheese creates a flavorful dish that's easy to prepare and sure to please vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a cream sauce by melting butter, then whisking in flour and milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add cayenne pepper (optional) and grated cheese to the sauce; set aside.
- Mix cracker crumbs with 1 stick of melted butter; set aside.
- In a buttered casserole, layer the drained asparagus, drained green peas, half of the cracker crumbs, and chopped mushrooms.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the layered vegetables.
- Sprinkle the remaining cracker crumbs on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle almonds on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth along with the milk. You can substitute the green peas with frozen peas for convenience, and if you prefer a different flavor, try using Parmesan cheese instead of sharp cheddar. If you want a nutty finish, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm quinoa salad. Enjoy it as part of your favorite American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And Pea Casserole contains roughly 386 calories, with 10g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh asparagus! Simply blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before using it in the recipe. This will ensure it remains tender and vibrant in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the mushrooms?
If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture. Just ensure that whatever you choose is chopped finely and pre-cooked if necessary.
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).