Give your family the cheesy, dreamy casserole they deserve, but with a healthy green twist.
I’ll be the first to admit that I wish my family ate better. I’m always the one who nags them to eat more greens. But I also understand how challenging that can be, especially when they’re so accustomed to a diet high in carbs and cheese. But it’s okay, because there are easy ways to sneak in some greens where they least expect it, without sacrificing any of the savory flavors they know and love.
Asparagus casserole is a low-key revolution for those of us who want to introduce more veggies to our diet but aren’t sure how. Certainly, it’s not 100% clean eating, but it is a hearty vegetarian dish that can get us more used to the idea of eating greens. Each tender piece of asparagus is immersed in a rich and creamy sauce, then topped with crumbled crackers, ensuring each bite will be more satisfying than the last.
The best part is that asparagus casserole can be one whole meal by itself—no sides needed. This cheesy casserole is the kind I would bring to a potluck. All I need is some aluminum foil to cover the casserole dish and some pot holders to prevent burns. Otherwise, I can let it cool off completely and then heat it up again at the host’s house, if an oven is available. With such versatility all in one dish, this recipe could easily become the life of the party!
How to prep asparagus
In all my experience with preparing fresh produce, asparagus has given me the most trouble. Why? Because certain parts of these green spears are too tough to eat easily, and they can ruin a whole meal if included by accident. So I recommend that you remove the woody stem of the asparagus so that each bite of this casserole is tender and enjoyable—not stringy. It’s also important to cut the asparagus tops into two-inch pieces so that they’re smoothly incorporated into the casserole. With all that in mind, you’ll have no problem crafting a satisfying dish full of green goodness.
How do I store leftovers?
Let your asparagus casserole cool completely to room temperature before covering and refrigerating it. If it’s a small portion, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. I don’t recommend freezing this casserole because that would make the cracker topping wet and soggy. To reheat, bake leftovers in the oven at 300°F for 15-20 minutes, depending on how much is left. The more casserole left over, the more time it will need to warm up.
Similar recipes to try
If asparagus isn’t your thing, but you still want a casserole with some greens in it, then try Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Casserole or Keto Green Bean Casserole. Either of these would be a great contribution to a potluck or simply an easy family dinner. On the other hand, if you want less casserole and more asparagus, then try Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus—a smoky side dish with a hint of cheese. Expand upon that with an easy but filling meal of Keto Chicken And Asparagus With White Cheddar Sauce.
Asparagus Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 6 ounces reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 plain crackers crushed
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, Greek yogurt, and the grated cheddar cheese.
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In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion softens.
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Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the low-fat milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the thickened sauce into the bowl with the asparagus mixture and stir until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crushed crackers and Parmesan over the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the asparagus is tender. For a crispier, golden topping, broil for an extra minute.
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Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
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