Description
This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a creamy, flavorful side dish featuring tender asparagus bathed in a rich blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Topped with a buttery cracker crumble and baked to bubbly golden perfection, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Blanch Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. Drain the asparagus thoroughly and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Lower the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Combine and Top: Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the blanched asparagus in the baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy, buttery topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon bits or sliced mushrooms into the casserole before baking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or ham to complete a hearty meal.
