Asparagus Casserole

Asparagus Casserole

Asparagus casserole is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of asparagus with creamy, cheesy goodness, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy side dish for a family dinner or a tasty contribution to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. The tender asparagus, rich cheese sauce, and crispy topping come together to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the blanched asparagus to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the asparagus evenly.
7. Transfer the asparagus and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

This asparagus casserole is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, alongside your favorite main dish or as a standalone vegetarian option. The combination of tender asparagus, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy breadcrumb topping makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in cooked bacon, diced ham, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. So, next time you’re looking for a delicious and comforting side dish, give this asparagus casserole a try – it’s a true winner in both taste and simplicity.