About This Recipe
This cheesy asparagus casserole is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 bunches asparagus, about 2 pounds
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ⅛ cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
- ½ oz soft cream cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp chicken broth
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
Use Fresh Asparagus: For the best flavor, use fresh asparagus that is firm and bright green.
Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the asparagus. It should be tender-crisp.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Preheat the Oven: Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking the casserole.
Even Layer: Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the baking dish for even cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Old Asparagus: Make sure your asparagus is fresh and firm.
Overcooking the Asparagus: Check the asparagus for doneness after 12 minutes of baking.
Not Whisking the Sauce Constantly: This can cause the sauce to scorch.
Adding Too Much Cheese: Too much cheese can make the casserole heavy and greasy.
Variations
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for extra heat.
Deluxe: Add some cooked shrimp or crabmeat for a more decadent casserole.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, cheddar, or fontina.
Added Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the casserole, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
Storage & Freezing
Store leftover cheesy asparagus casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the asparagus may become slightly softer.
Conclusion
This cheesy asparagus casserole is a simple, elegant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and tender asparagus, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite side dish today!
Frequently Asked Questions
While fresh asparagus is preferred, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole. Keep in mind that the texture of frozen asparagus will be softer than fresh asparagus.
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the bacon just before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to create your own unique flavor combination. Some good options include Gruyere, cheddar, fontina, and mozzarella.
Yes, you can add other vegetables to this casserole. Some good options include mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and broccoli.