Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Cheesy Asparagus Casserole that makes for a perfect side dish. Tender asparagus enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. A delightful addition to any meal!
Ingredients
Scale
Asparagus:
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Blanch the asparagus: Boil asparagus for 2–3 minutes, then shock in ice water, drain, and dry.
- Make the cheese sauce: Sauté onion, garlic, add flour, milk, cream, cheeses, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
- Combine and bake: Mix sauce with asparagus, transfer to dish, top with breadcrumb mixture, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Allow to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Enhance with cooked bacon or ham for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
