ASPARAGUS CRAB AU GRATIN

Asparagus Crab Au Gratin image

"I was delighted to discover this rich casserole years ago when we had a large asparagus patch," recalls Nancy Thibodeau of Overgaard, Arizona. "It's so easy that I've fixed it many times since, even for a baby shower. The compliments were unending."

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 package (10 ounces) frozen asparagus cuts, thawed and drained
1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed or 1 cup flaked imitation crabmeat
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons butter, divided
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 cup soft bread crumbs

Steps:

Place asparagus in a greased 1-qt. baking dish. Top with crab and sprinkle with cheese; set aside. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Whisk in milk, mustard, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. , Remove from the heat; stir in lemon juice. Pour over asparagus. Melt remaining butter; toss with bread crumbs. Sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 294 calories, Fat 19g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 92mg cholesterol, Sodium 732mg sodium, Carbohydrate 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 18g protein.