Ham And Asparagus Divine
Ham and asparagus baked in a creamy cheese sauce with Parmesan topping, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion. Rich, savory, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the ham into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Cook the asparagus until tender; drain.
- Alternate layers of ham and asparagus in a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in the flour until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the milk and sour cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add the grated Muenster cheese and stir until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the sauce over the layered ham and asparagus in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey ham or a plant-based ham substitute. You can also swap the Muenster cheese for cheddar or mozzarella to change the flavor profile. If you prefer fresh asparagus, blanch them briefly before layering. Make sure your sauce is thick enough to coat the layers well; this ensures a creamy texture. Taste the sauce before pouring to adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ham And Asparagus Divine with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a hearty meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. You might also enjoy pairing this with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider including a fruit salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid drying out. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to cover it tightly before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Asparagus Divine contains roughly 1036 calories, with 23g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% 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 frozen?
Yes, fresh asparagus can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to trim the ends and blanch them for a few minutes until tender before layering them with the ham. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt works as an excellent substitute, providing a similar tanginess and creaminess. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese, thinned with a bit of milk to reach the desired consistency.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the baking step a day in advance. Assemble the layers and pour the sauce over them, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).