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.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🥦 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 🧅 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌾 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 🥛 2 cups whole milk
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🧂 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)
📝 Directions:
Prepare the Asparagus:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 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:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and paprika (if using).
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the blanched asparagus evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, making sure it is evenly coated.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For added flavor, you can mix in some cooked bacon bits or sautéed 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! 🧀🥦✨