Scalloped Asparagus
Scalloped asparagus is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender asparagus tips, hard-boiled eggs, and crunchy almonds, all topped with cracker crumbs and baked to perfection. This elegant dish suits special occasions or a sophisticated, vegetable-forward main course for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1/3 cup margarine and stir in flour, salt, and pepper to make a smooth paste.
- Drain the liquid from the asparagus tips and add enough milk to make 2 cups total liquid.
- Stir the liquid into the flour paste and cook slowly, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pimentos, chopped parsley, and chopped almonds.
- Cover the bottom of a 1 1/2-quart casserole with half of the asparagus, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and grated American cheese; repeat the layers and top with cracker crumbs.
- Garnish with reserved asparagus tips.
- Melt remaining margarine and pour over the top.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk in the sauce. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the American cheese with cheddar or Gruyère. You can also replace the margarine with butter for a richer taste. When preparing the dish, ensure to drain the asparagus thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped asparagus makes a delightful side dish, especially when served alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Candied Baby Carrots for a colorful plate. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Asparagus contains roughly 611 calories, with 14g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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?
Absolutely! Fresh asparagus can be steamed or blanched before layering it in the casserole. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Fresh asparagus will add a vibrant flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the hard-boiled eggs?
If you want to omit the eggs, consider adding cooked and crumbled tofu for a vegetarian alternative, or use sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. Both options will still provide a hearty texture to the dish without compromising its integrity.
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).