Odessa'S Asparagus Casserole
A creamy asparagus casserole layered with crackers and cheese, baked to perfection with mushroom soup—comforting, savory, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the crackers and grate the hoop cheese; mix together and set aside.
- Grease a casserole dish with butter or oleo.
- Place a layer of crackers and cheese mixture at the bottom of the dish.
- Add half of the cracker and cheese mixture as a second layer.
- Drain the asparagus and liquids together.
- Place the drained asparagus over the layers of crackers and cheese.
- Spread the mushroom soup mixture over the asparagus layer.
- Add the remaining cracker and cheese mixture on top and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mushroom soup before spreading it over the asparagus. If you're out of hoop cheese, a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese works well as a substitute. Adjust the salt according to your preference, especially if using salted crackers or cheese. To enhance texture, try adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a delightful side dish for roasted chicken or a holiday ham. To add a fresh touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, pair it with a creamy potato dish or a warm bread like 'Ginger Snaps' Molasses Cookies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Odessa'S Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 345 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg per serving (33% 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, fresh asparagus can be used instead of canned. Just blanch the asparagus in boiling water for a few minutes until tender, then drain and follow the same layering process. This will enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for the soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. This adaptation keeps the dish fully vegetarian while maintaining a creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers in place of regular ones. Ensure that your mushroom soup is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
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).