“Delight in the harmonious blend of vibrant flavors and comforting indulgence with our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. This delectable creation celebrates the verdant beauty of asparagus by enveloping it in a creamy, cheesy embrace that’s both satisfying and elegant. Imagine tender asparagus spears, perfectly seasoned and bathed in a velvety cheese sauce that melts to perfection in every bite. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust and a sprinkle of grated cheese, each spoonful offers a symphony of textures and tastes that’s as delightful as it is flavorful. With every forkful, you’ll savor the contrast of the earthy asparagus and the comforting richness of cheese, all coming together in a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Whether enjoyed as a delightful side dish for gatherings, a way to elevate your vegetable repertoire, or a celebration of the joys of springtime produce, our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole promises a culinary journey that captures the essence of both taste and comfort in every mouthwatering bite.”
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
Ingredients
2 bunches of asparagus
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 ounce soft cream cheese
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/8 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/3 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Directions
- Heat the oven to 400 degrees. – Wash and trim the asparagus, then grease a 9 x 13 baking tray and place them in it.In a skillet, melt the butter over a medium heat, then add the soft cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Stirring constantly until ingredients are well blended.
- Reduce the heat to medium/low and bring the sauce to a simmer until the heavy whipping cream has reduced and thickened.Keep whisking until it does not stick to the bottom of the pan. It will take a few min for sauce to reduce & thick.Once thick, add the Parmesan cheese and Pepper Jack cheese and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus in the middle of the casserole, avoiding the tops of the asparagus.Next, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese sauce.
- Bake for 15 minutes.If you prefer crunchy asparagus, you can reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes.Remove from oven and add bacon crumbs to the top.Bake for another 3 minutes and Enjoy!