Asparagus And Peas Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender peas, asparagus, water chestnuts, and mushrooms in a creamy mushroom soup, topped with cheese and crunchy bread crumbs. Perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen peas until tender and drain.
- Drain the can of asparagus, water chestnuts, and sliced mushrooms; slice chestnuts thinly.
- Crumble the bread slices into a bowl and mix with one stick of melted butter to create crumbs.
- Spread the cooked peas evenly in a greased 9x9-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the drained asparagus on top of the peas, followed by the sliced water chestnuts and mushrooms.
- Pour the undiluted mushroom soup over the layered vegetables.
- Sprinkle half a cup of grated cheese over the soup layer.
- Top with the prepared bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh asparagus instead of canned for a more vibrant taste. You can substitute the mushroom soup with a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and cream. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add some crushed crackers or nuts to the bread crumbs before baking. This dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole serves well as a main dish, especially alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with Mamie'S Unbaked Chocolate Cookies for a delightful finish to your meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with roasted chicken or a grilled protein of your choice.
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 a quick meal, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And Peas Casserole contains roughly 372 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (87% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% 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 peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them briefly in boiling water until tender, then drain before adding them to the casserole. Fresh peas will add a lovely texture and flavor to the dish.
What can I use instead of cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit the cheese altogether. You can also use a plant-based cheese substitute that melts well for a similar effect.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).