Scalloped Asparagus With Artichokes
Creamy scalloped asparagus and artichokes combine tender vegetables with a rich cheese sauce, making a comforting side perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the drained green asparagus, canned asparagus, drained artichokes, and mushrooms in a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat; blend in flour slowly to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk and reserved artichoke juice, stirring constantly to make a smooth cream sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, Accent, and half of the grated cheese; stir until cheese melts.
- Pour the sauce over the layered vegetables in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute fresh asparagus for canned, though you'll need to blanch it first. If you want to enhance the flavor further, add some garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. For a twist, try adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Pairs beautifully with Excellent Pound Cake for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This scalloped asparagus dish makes a great side for roasted chicken or grilled fish. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. Consider pairing it with Easy Mix Cookie Bars for a delightful dessert. It can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian main dish, perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15 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 Scalloped Asparagus With Artichokes contains roughly 58 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh artichokes, you'll need to cook and prepare them beforehand. This will add a fresher taste and unique texture to the dish, making it even more delicious.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is a great choice for its flavor, but you can also experiment with Gruyère or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just make sure to use cheese that melts well for a creamy sauce.
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).