Wild Rice Brunch Casserole

Name: Wild Rice Brunch Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 10 servings.
Ingredients: 1 package (4 ounces) wild rice; 1-1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham; 5 tablespoons butter, divided; 12 large eggs; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; CHEESE SAUCE:; 2 tablespoons canola oil; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 2 cups shredded Colby or Gouda cheese; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; Dash white pepper

Wild rice is one of our state's prized foods. Paired with our garden specialty—fresh asparagus—this recipe can't miss!

Ingredients

1 package (4 ounces) wild rice
1-1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
5 tablespoons butter, divided
12 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
CHEESE SAUCE:
2 tablespoons canola oil
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded Colby or Gouda cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Dash white pepper

Directions

Cook rice according to package directions. Spread in greased 13x9-in. baking dish; set aside.
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 325°. Place asparagus and 1/2 in. of water in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 3-5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, saute ham in 2 tablespoons butter until lightly browned. Spoon over wild rice.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt and pepper. In the same skillet, heat remaining butter until hot. Add egg mixture; cook and stir over medium heat until eggs are completely set. Spoon over ham; top with asparagus.
For sauce, heat oil in a saucepan. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; add the cheese, ginger and pepper. Cook and stir 2 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
Pour over casserole. Cover and bake 30 minutes. Uncover; bake 10-15 minutes longer or until a thermometer reads 160°.