Carrot Casserole Almondine
A comforting carrot casserole with stewed tomatoes, toasted cheese crackers, and almonds, offering a savory, nutty flavor perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil carrots in water with salt until tender-crisp; drain.
- Place carrots, stewed tomatoes, thyme, and marjoram in a buttered casserole.
- Mix crushed cheese crackers and slivered almonds with melted butter and use to top the casserole.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve hot. Can be made early and reheated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the carrot mixture. If you don't have cheese crackers, you can substitute with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with cheese. Ensure the carrots are cut uniformly for even cooking, and adjust the herbs to suit your taste. This dish can also be tailored for vegetarian recipes by using vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
This Carrot Casserole Almondine pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a delightful contrast. For a heartier option, serve with Rice With Chicken Broth for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for the best texture, oven reheating is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Casserole Almondine contains roughly 893 calories, with 25g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (474% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2219mg per serving (96% 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 prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2 cups of chopped ripe tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them down a bit with the carrots to release their juices, ensuring the casserole isn't too watery.
What can I substitute for slivered almonds?
If you don't have slivered almonds, you can use chopped walnuts or pecans for a different flavor and texture. For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead.
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).