Escalloped Ham And Asparagus
Creamy escalloped ham and asparagus combines tender potatoes, smoked ham, and fresh asparagus in a rich milk and flour sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced potatoes, diced ham, and chopped asparagus in a casserole dish.
- Combine milk, flour, black pepper, salt, and parsley in a bowl.
- Mix until the flour dissolves completely into the milk mixture.
- Pour the milk mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere in the milk mixture. If you don't have asparagus, green beans or broccoli can serve as great substitutes. Make sure to slice your potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. To enhance the dish, you can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the layers.
Serving Suggestions
This Escalloped Ham and Asparagus dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats, making it versatile for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escalloped Ham And Asparagus contains roughly 1284 calories, with 53g protein, 246g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (246% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1329mg 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the smoked ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like mushrooms or lentils for a meatless version. Just ensure the alternative is cooked before layering it in the casserole.
How do I prevent my potatoes from browning before baking?
To prevent browning, you can soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before layering them in the dish. This helps remove excess starch and keeps them from oxidizing. Drain and pat dry before using.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking, or increase your cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).