Spears Of Asparagus En Casserole
A creamy, cheesy asparagus casserole with peas, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck, offering savory flavors in a warm, baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a casserole dish.
- Combine frozen asparagus, green peas, and cream of mushroom soup in a bowl.
- Reserve part of the grated Cheddar cheese for topping.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly and transfer to the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute fresh asparagus if in season, just blanch it first. If you prefer a different flavor, try using cream of celery soup instead of mushroom. Adding breadcrumbs on top can give a delightful crunch, similar to the topping in Noreen'S Fruitcake.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside Meatballs In Barbecue Sauce. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top before serving for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spears Of Asparagus En Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 12g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% 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 frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh asparagus! Just make sure to blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before combining it with the other ingredients. This will ensure it's tender and well-cooked by the end of the baking time.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup as alternatives. For a healthier option, consider making a homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To keep this casserole vegetarian, simply stick with the cream of mushroom soup, which is often vegetarian-friendly. Ensure the cheese you use is also vegetarian, and you're all set for a delicious vegetarian 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).