Looking for a nutritious and delicious meal that's quick and easy to prepare? Meet the Ham and Asparagus Casserole—a perfect choice for health-conscious home cooks. Packed with lean ham, fresh asparagus, and a delightful combination of cheeses, this casserole is not only tasty but also brimming with nutrients. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without compromising on your health goals.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
- 1 pound of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups of cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (you can use dairy or a plant-based alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Ingredients
- Asparagus: Wash the asparagus thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Ham: Dice the cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Layer the Casserole
In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, start layering your ingredients:
- Place a layer of asparagus pieces at the bottom.
- Add a layer of diced ham over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle the sautéed onions and garlic evenly over the ham.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Instructions
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Ham and Asparagus Casserole warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a crisp side salad or a serving of whole-grain bread for a complete and balanced meal. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.
Additional Tips:
- For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale to the casserole.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
Conclusion
This Ham and Asparagus Casserole is a fantastic, easy-to-make dish that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs. Give it a try, and you'll have a new favorite recipe to add to your repertoire! Ready to impress your family and friends? Get cooking and enjoy the delicious results! 🍽️
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