Ah, Ham and Asparagus Lasagna! Just the mention of it brings back warm memories of family gatherings at my aunt’s house, where the air would be filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, combining the heartiness of ham with the freshness of asparagus, and let me tell you, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. In fact, it’s become somewhat of a tradition to serve it during holidays and special occasions because it’s so versatile and comforting.
What I love most about this recipe is how it balances flavors and textures—creamy, cheesy goodness with that satisfying crunch of asparagus. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your company rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
What’s in Ham and Asparagus Lasagna?
Lasagna Noodles: These are the backbone of the dish, providing structure and holding everything together. I prefer the regular kind, but no-boil noodles can save you some time.
Cooked Ham: Diced ham adds heartiness and flavor. You can use leftovers from a holiday ham or even grab some deli ham to keep it simple.
Fresh Asparagus: The star veggie of the show! Fresh asparagus not only brings a vibrant color but also a lovely crunch. Be sure to trim off the tough ends for the best bites.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms enhance the umami factor and bring a wonderful earthy flavor. You can use white or cremini mushrooms, depending on your preference.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This melty cheese is essential for that gooey, cheesy goodness everyone loves. I usually go for sharp cheddar for an extra flavor kick.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: A creamy base that ties all the flavors together. You can use homemade soup if you’re feeling ambitious, but canned varieties work just fine for convenience.
Milk: This helps loosen up the cream of mushroom soup so it’s easier to pour over the layers.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings bring depth and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Salt and Pepper: The essential seasoning duo! Always taste as you go.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): A flavorful topping that adds a beautiful brown crust. I like to sprinkle a little extra for a fancy touch!
Is Ham and Asparagus Lasagna Good for You?
This lasagna packs a nutritious punch with its array of ingredients.
Asparagus: This green delight is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, making it a great addition to your plate. It’s low in calories too!
Mushrooms: Low in calories and packed with essential nutrients, mushrooms are also a good source of antioxidants.
Ham: While it adds protein, processed meats like ham can be high in sodium, which is something to keep in mind, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using whole wheat lasagna noodles, low-fat cheese, and low-sodium ham. It’s all about balance, and this dish has plenty of room for personalized adjustments!
Ingredients List
– 9 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
*Serves 6-8.*
How to Make Ham and Asparagus Lasagna?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and mushrooms, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Remove from heat.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the soup mixture on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
6. Add half of the diced ham, followed by half of the sautéed asparagus and mushrooms. Pour one-third of the soup and cheese mixture over the top.
7. Repeat the layers, starting with another layer of noodles, the remaining ham, the sautéed vegetables, and half of the remaining soup and cheese mixture.
8. Finish with the last three noodles and pour the remaining soup and cheese mixture over the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using) on top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Lasagna Love: Tips and Variations
– Want to spice things up? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to your sausage layer for a kick!
– Feel free to toss in other favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
– If you’re a fan of different cheeses, swap the cheddar for mozzarella or gouda.
– Consider making a double batch; it freezes beautifully! Just prepare and freeze before baking, and pop it in the oven whenever you’re ready.
I hope you give this Ham and Asparagus Lasagna a try! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or for impressing friends with minimal effort. I can’t wait to hear about your experiences with it, so don’t forget to share your thoughts! Happy cooking!
