Margaret'S Asparagus Casserole
A creamy asparagus casserole with melted cheddar and crunchy cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering comforting flavors with a cheesy, savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the juice off the asparagus into a pan.
- Add flour, oleo, grated cheddar, salt, pepper, and enough cracker crumbs to thicken.
- Add milk if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Layer the drained asparagus and sauce in a baking dish.
- Top with additional grated cheese and cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the mixture. If you don't have oleo, butter is a great substitute for richness. To enhance flavor, try adding minced garlic or sautéed onions to the sauce. For a crunchier topping, mix in some homemade soda crackers with the Ritz crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus casserole makes a delightful side dish for any main course, particularly roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs beautifully with Deluxe Baked Potatoes for a comforting meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover asparagus casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 10 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help achieve a tender texture while retaining some crunch.
What if I want to make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers for the topping. This will ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worrying about gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
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).