Creamy Asparagus and Ham Breakfast Casserole
Indulge in a delightful morning feast with our Creamy Asparagus and Ham Breakfast Casserole. This hearty dish layers fresh asparagus, juicy cubed ham, and tender hard-boiled eggs, all enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. It's not just a breakfast; it's an experience that transforms your brunch gatherings into an occasion. Serve this savory casserole over warm, flaky biscuits for a satisfying meal that will leave your guests raving. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or simply to elevate your weekend brunch!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh asparagus
1 lb (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
Butter
3/4 cup (melted)
All-purpose flour
3/4 cup (sifted)
Milk
4 cups (whole or reduced fat)
Chicken broth
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (low sodium recommended)
Cubed ham
1 lb (cooked)
Shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces (for melting)
Hard-boiled eggs
8 (sliced into quarters)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Cayenne pepper or black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Biscuits
12 (cut in half (homemade or store-bought))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Wash the asparagus and cut it into 1/2-inch pieces. In a large pot, bring a small amount of water to boil and cook the asparagus until they're crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth, then gradually add the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly.
4
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and continue to stir for about 2 minutes, until it thickens.
5
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed ham and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted.
6
Gently fold in the cooked asparagus, quartered hard-boiled eggs, salt, and cayenne or black pepper. Heat through for about 2-3 minutes without boiling.
7
Place the biscuit halves in a greased baking dish and pour the creamy mixture over the top, ensuring even distribution.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
9
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole warm!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Asparagus and Ham Breakfast Casserole?
It is a hearty breakfast dish featuring fresh asparagus, cubed ham, and hard-boiled eggs in a rich cheese sauce, served over flaky biscuits.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long should I boil the asparagus?
Boil the asparagus pieces for about 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
How should the asparagus be prepared?
Wash the asparagus and cut it into 1/2-inch pieces before cooking.
How do I make the base for the creamy sauce?
Melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour until smooth, and then gradually add milk and chicken broth.
How long should I stir the sauce mixture to thicken it?
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and stir constantly for about 2 minutes.
What type of cheese is best for this casserole?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
When should I add the ham and cheese?
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed ham and shredded cheddar cheese after the sauce has thickened.
How many eggs are needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 8 hard-boiled eggs.
How should the hard-boiled eggs be sliced?
The hard-boiled eggs should be sliced into quarters before being folded into the mixture.
Can I use black pepper instead of cayenne?
Yes, you can use 1/8 teaspoon of either cayenne pepper or black pepper to taste.
How are the biscuits prepared for the dish?
The 12 biscuits should be cut in half and placed in a greased baking dish.
Can I use store-bought biscuits?
Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought biscuits for this recipe.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes in the preheated oven.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the top is golden.
Should the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to enjoy it warm.
What type of milk should I use?
The recipe recommends 4 cups of either whole or reduced-fat milk.
How much butter and flour are needed for the roux?
You will need 3/4 cup of butter and 3/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
What kind of chicken broth is recommended?
A 14.5-ounce can of low sodium chicken broth is recommended.
How much ham is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 lb of cooked, cubed ham.
What occasions is this dish suitable for?
It is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weekend brunch gatherings.
Is the asparagus added raw to the sauce?
No, the asparagus should be pre-cooked by boiling for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, the recipe specifies using a greased baking dish for the biscuits and mixture.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of fresh asparagus for the best results.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 11 ingredients required for this recipe.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include breakfast, casserole, brunch, asparagus, eggs, ham, and comfort food.
Should the sauce be boiled after adding the eggs?
No, you should heat the mixture through for 2-3 minutes without letting it boil once the eggs and asparagus are folded in.
Is salt added to the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is added to taste.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
It is a savory and creamy dish with a rich cheese and ham base balanced by fresh asparagus.