Asparagus Casserole With Ham
A creamy asparagus and ham casserole topped with cheese and bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, combining tender vegetables, savory ham, and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Blend butter and flour in a saucepan; cook until thick.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and cook until thickened.
- Stir in prepared mustard.
- Combine asparagus, green peas, sliced eggs, and chopped cooked ham in a 2-quart greased casserole dish.
- Pour mushroom sauce over the mixture.
- Mix bread crumbs with shredded cheese.
- Spread the bread crumb and cheese mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until casserole is browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade cream of mushroom soup instead of canned. You can substitute the asparagus with green beans or broccoli for a different vegetable profile. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of butter. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus casserole with ham pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted potatoes or rice. A light white wine or sparkling water would complement the dish nicely. For more hearty options, consider serving it with Pork And Gravy for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover asparagus casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for quick reheating, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Casserole With Ham contains roughly 382 calories, with 13g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% 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?
Absolutely! You can use fresh asparagus for a crisper texture. Blanch the fresh asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the casserole to ensure it's tender but not mushy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A sharp cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this casserole, providing a nice contrast to the creamy mushroom sauce. You can also experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor or a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
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).