Company Asparagus
A creamy, cheesy asparagus bake topped with crunchy almonds and golden breadcrumbs, perfect for a comforting side or a quick crowd‑pleasing dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine asparagus, cheddar cheese soup, chopped hard‑boiled eggs, slivered almonds and 1/2 cup of bread crumbs in a buttered 1‑quart casserole dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh asparagus instead of canned, or try adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the dish. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cheddar cheese soup. Remember to toast the almonds for a richer nutty flavor. This dish can also be adapted to fit vegetarian recipes by ensuring that the soup is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
Company Asparagus makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or gatherings. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Scalloped Corn, creating a comforting spread. For a light lunch, serve it with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Asparagus contains roughly 595 calories, with 13g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, fresh asparagus can be used for a fresher taste. Blanch it briefly before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure it cooks evenly in the casserole.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Additionally, check that the cheddar cheese soup is gluten-free or consider making your own from scratch.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).