Scalloped Asparagus Casserole
A creamy, cheesy asparagus casserole with pimentos, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, combining tender asparagus with rich cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan; add flour, salt, and pepper, and stir to form a smooth paste.
- Drain juice from the canned asparagus and add enough milk to make 2 cups of liquid.
- Gradually add the milk mixture to the paste, stirring constantly over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
- Add chopped pimentos to the sauce and stir well.
- Drain the asparagus spears and arrange them in a buttered casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. If you don't have pimentos, you can substitute with diced red bell pepper or even a dollop of Nancy'S Homemade Pimento Cheese for added creaminess. Ensure the asparagus is well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delightful contrast. For a comforting dinner, serve with The Real Mashed Potatoes. A light white wine can complement the flavors well, making it a great addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover scalloped asparagus casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as this can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 1589 calories, with 8g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 156g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1625mg per serving (71% 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 for a fresher taste. Blanch the asparagus spears in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before draining and adding them to the casserole. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crunch in the final dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure that the bread crumbs are gluten-free as well, or you can make your own from gluten-free bread.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Allow extra time for baking if it's coming straight from the refrigerator, as it may need a few additional minutes to heat through.
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).