Ham Asparagus Rolls
Delicious ham and asparagus rolls featuring cheesy rice filling, perfect for elegant dinners or entertaining guests with a savory, satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and salt. Gradually add milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded Swiss cheese and stir until melted. Blend 1 cup of the sauce with cooked rice.
- Spoon an equal amount of rice mixture onto the narrow end of each ham slice.
- Top each with 3 to 4 asparagus spears. Roll the ham around the filling.
- Arrange the rolls in a shallow 2-quart baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy texture, ensure to whisk the sauce continuously while adding the milk to avoid lumps. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyere for a stronger flavor. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, consider incorporating finely diced bell peppers or green onions in the rice mixture. This dish also works well with leftover rice from previous meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Ham Asparagus Rolls with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a refreshing White Christmas Drink to complement the flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving them alongside baked potatoes or a creamy potato gratin for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual rolls for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Asparagus Rolls contains roughly 539 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1128mg per serving (49% 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 absolutely use fresh asparagus! Just blanch the fresh spears for a couple of minutes in boiling water before using them in the rolls to ensure they are tender yet still crisp.
What can I substitute for the rice?
If you're looking for a low-carb option, you can replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Alternatively, quinoa can be used for a nuttier flavor. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the rolls and assemble them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
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).