Aunt Ruby'S Chicken-Asparagus Casserole
A hearty chicken and asparagus casserole topped with cheesy cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings with a blend of savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place asparagus in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole dish.
- Slice hard-boiled eggs over the asparagus.
- Add cooked, boned chicken cut into chunks on top.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup, grated sharp cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice together.
- Spread the soup mixture over the eggs, asparagus, and chicken.
- Crumble Ritz crackers and mix the crumbs with margarine until coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
- Shake paprika on top as a garnish.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchy topping, ensure the Ritz cracker mixture is evenly coated with margarine. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great alternative to prepare this dish quickly. Consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad, such as Apple Bacon Salad, for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light soup. For a hearty dinner, consider serving alongside Oven-Fried Chicken (Diabetic) for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ruby'S Chicken-Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 1856 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 187g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1389mg per serving (60% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I substitute for the hard-boiled eggs?
If you prefer not to use hard-boiled eggs, you can omit them entirely or substitute with scrambled eggs for a different texture. Another option is to use silken tofu for a vegetarian version, blended until smooth for creaminess in the casserole.
Can I use fresh asparagus instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh asparagus can be used for a more vibrant flavor and texture. Simply blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help retain its bright green color and crispness.
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).