Asparagus Spoon Bread(Yields 6 To 8 Servings)
A creamy, cheesy asparagus spoon bread with a tender texture, perfect as a side dish or comfort food for family gatherings and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat milk slowly.
- Add cornmeal and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until soft and thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add sugar, salt, margarine, baking powder, and shredded cheese.
- Beat until cheese melts.
- When cooled slightly, stir in egg yolks one at a time.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold egg whites into the cornmeal mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. You can also experiment with different cheeses; Gruyère or Monterey Jack could add unique flavors. Make sure to fold the egg whites gently to maintain the airy texture of the spoon bread.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus Spoon Bread is delightful as a side dish for brunch or dinner. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Crispy Peanut Butter Balls for a fun contrast of flavors. For a complete meal, enjoy it with a light soup or a vegetable medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook, which can make it rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Spoon Bread(Yields 6 To 8 Servings) contains roughly 281 calories, with 5g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1324mg per serving (58% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cornmeal mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before folding in the egg whites and pouring it into the casserole dish. This way, you can save time on busy days.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like Feta or Fontina for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat cheese, but keep in mind that it may not melt as smoothly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Asparagus Spoon Bread is a vegetarian recipe, making it a great option for meatless meals. However, if you want to add more protein, consider serving it with a side of eggs or a bean salad to keep it hearty and satisfying.
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).