ASPARAGUS PUFF RING

Asparagus Puff Ring image

Every spring when I make this family-favorite entree. I'm struck by how impressive it looks. Ham and asparagus in a creamy sauce are pile high in a cheesy cream puff shell. It's delicious and deceivingly simple to prepare! -Shirley De Lange, Byron Center, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 55m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

3/4 cup water
6 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
FILLING:
1 pound fresh asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1-1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups diced fully cooked ham

Steps:

In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring water and butter to a boil. Add flour and salt all at once; stir until a smooth ball forms. Remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each; beat until smooth. Stir in 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese. , Using 1/4 cupfuls of dough, form a ring around the sides of a greased 10-in. quiche pan or pie plate (mounds should touch). Top with the remaining cheese. Bake at 400° for 35 minutes., Meanwhile, cook asparagus in a small amount of water for 3-4 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. , In a large saucepan, saute onion in butter until tender. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper until blended. Gradually add milk; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat; add cheeses and stir until melted. , Stir in ham and asparagus; spoon into ring. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 427 calories, Fat 28g fat (15g saturated fat), Cholesterol 192mg cholesterol, Sodium 1324mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 22g protein.