Asparagus Casserole Au Gratin
A creamy and cheesy asparagus casserole with pimentos, perfect for a comforting side dish or family dinner, combining tender asparagus with rich cheddar and a crispy cracker topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the asparagus, reserving the liquid.
- Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped asparagus, reserved liquid, eggs, shredded Cheddar cheese, cracker crumbs, and milk. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier topping, use crushed potato chips instead of cracker crumbs. This dish can also be made with fresh asparagus, just blanch it before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus casserole au gratin makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. It pairs beautifully with Old Time Mac And Cheese for a comforting meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
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 for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overheat, as it may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Casserole Au Gratin contains roughly 733 calories, with 14g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% 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 canned?
Yes, fresh asparagus can be used in this casserole. Simply blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before cutting it into pieces. This will help retain its vibrant color and crispness in the final dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the casserole dish, cover it, and bake it when you're ready to serve. It might take a few extra minutes to bake if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the milk?
If you're looking for a non-dairy alternative, you can use almond milk or any other plant-based milk. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess. For a richer taste, consider using half-and-half or a combination of cream and water.
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).