Asparagus-Pea Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender asparagus, sweet peas, creamy mushroom soup, and melted Cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy onion rings, it offers a savory, cheesy flavor perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the drained large can of asparagus, drained small can of LeSueur peas, diced hard-boiled egg (if using), can of cream of mushroom soup, and shredded Cheddar cheese in a casserole dish.
- Top the layered mixture with onion rings.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or dried herbs like thyme or oregano. If you don't have LeSueur peas, any canned peas will work, or you could use frozen peas thawed beforehand. To add a crunch, try topping the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs instead of onion rings. This dish is a great way to use up leftover veggies or even incorporate fresh asparagus during the season.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with baked chicken or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread or a refreshing cucumber salad. It’s also a fantastic side for holiday gatherings, making it a lovely addition to your table along with dishes like Grandma's Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover asparagus-pea casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven helps maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus-Pea Casserole contains roughly 602 calories, with 26g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (60% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 839mg per serving (36% 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 can be blanched and then layered in place of canned. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them briefly to soften before adding them to the casserole.
Is it necessary to include the hard-boiled egg?
The hard-boiled egg is optional but adds a nice texture and extra protein to the dish. If you're not a fan, feel free to omit it without affecting the overall flavor of the casserole.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
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).