Easy Asparagus Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy asparagus au gratin featuring tender canned asparagus spears baked with a rich cheese sauce and topped with almonds and cracker crumbs. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions, it combines savory flavors with a crunchy topping for an irresistible presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour until well blended.
- Slowly stir in 2 cups milk.
- Cook until the sauce is smooth and hot.
- Reduce heat and stir in grated cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil, and use low-fat cheese. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard works as a substitute. To add more flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic. This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a perfect side for Chicken Tarragon or other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Asparagus Au Gratin alongside grilled meats or as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad. It pairs beautifully with Mama'S Pineapple Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as the cheese may become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Asparagus Au Gratin contains roughly 1404 calories, with 48g protein, 281g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (385% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2346mg per serving (102% 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?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh asparagus. Just blanch it briefly in boiling water until tender before adding it to the gratin. Fresh asparagus will provide a crunchier texture and a vibrant flavor compared to canned.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is ideal due to its strong flavor that complements the asparagus well. However, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste and a creamier texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking 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).