Sandy C.'S Asparagus Casserole
A creamy asparagus casserole layered with peas and low-fat cheese, offering a comforting, flavorful dish suitable for family dinners and vegetable lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Drain the can of peas and the can of asparagus.
- Layer the drained peas, asparagus, and cream of mushroom soup in the casserole dish.
- Repeat the layering process three times.
- Sprinkle shredded low-fat sharp cheese on top of the final layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the layers. You can substitute the lower-fat cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or another cream soup if preferred. For a gluten-free option, ensure the soup is certified gluten-free. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist that can complement the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This asparagus casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light pasta dish for a comforting family dinner. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings, complementing entrees like roasted turkey or ham. Consider serving it with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or lemonade.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandy C.'S Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 214 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% 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! Simply blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender, then drain and layer it in the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for vegetarian diets as it features only vegetables and low-fat cheese. It can be a hearty main dish or a side, making it a great option for meatless meals.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).