Asparagus Cheese-Rice
A creamy and cheesy rice casserole with tender asparagus spears, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special side dish. The combination of cheddar, seasoned salt, and asparagus creates a flavorful, satisfying meal that pairs well with various main courses and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice and grated cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Drain asparagus and reserve the liquid; add asparagus to the rice and cheese mixture.
- In a separate bowl, blend together beaten egg, mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of asparagus liquid, and seasoned salt.
- Stir the egg mixture into the rice and asparagus mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle paprika over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, Gouda or Monterey Jack make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, ensure your mayonnaise is egg-free. Don't overmix the ingredients to maintain a light texture. If you're looking to elevate the dish, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Serving Suggestions
This Asparagus Cheese-Rice casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. To elevate your dining experience, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a comforting side, consider pairing it with Lo-Cal Pineapple Cake for dessert, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals until heated thoroughly, but the oven will help retain its texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Cheese-Rice contains roughly 578 calories, with 20g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (171% of the Daily Value), iron (75% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% 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! Fresh asparagus adds a vibrant flavor and texture. Simply blanch the fresh asparagus in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then chop and add it to the mixture as you would the canned variety.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any wheat products. Just ensure that the mayonnaise and any other ingredients you choose are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).