πŸ₯¦πŸ§€ Cheesy Asparagus Casserole πŸ§€πŸ₯¦

This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a delicious and creamy side dish that combines tender asparagus with a rich cheese sauce, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

πŸ“‹ Ingredients:

  • πŸ₯¦ 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • πŸ§… 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • πŸ§„ 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🌾 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • πŸ₯› 2 cups whole milk
  • πŸ§€ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • πŸ§€ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • πŸ§€ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • πŸ§‚ 1 teaspoon salt
  • 🌢️ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 🌿 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
  • 🌿 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 🍞 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 🧈 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 🌿 Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

πŸ“ Directions:

Prepare the Asparagus:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and paprika (if using).

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Spread the blanched asparagus evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  2. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, making sure it is evenly coated.

Prepare the Topping:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

Bake:

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
  3. Serve warm.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350 kcal per serving

πŸ’‘ Notes:

  • For added flavor, you can mix in some cooked bacon bits or sautΓ©ed mushrooms with the asparagus.
  • This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.

Enjoy your creamy and delicious Cheesy Asparagus Casserole! πŸ§€πŸ₯¦βœ¨