Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a delightful side dish that combines tender asparagus spears with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon and a hint of spice. This comforting casserole is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, adding a pop of flavor and color to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 bunches of asparagus, trimmed
- 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
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Asparagus:
- Trim the tough ends from the asparagus spears and discard. Arrange the trimmed asparagus in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Add Cheeses:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded Pepper Jack cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Pour Sauce Over Asparagus:
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus in the baking dish, ensuring that all the spears are coated with the sauce.
- Top with Bacon and Spices:
- Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the cheese-covered asparagus. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for added spice, if desired.
- Bake:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Make it Low-Carb: For a low-carb version of this casserole, omit the chicken broth and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder to thicken the sauce.
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content of this dish by adding cooked shredded chicken or diced ham to the cheese sauce before pouring it over the asparagus.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, cheddar, or Swiss cheese would all work well in place of or in addition to the Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheese.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking as directed. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Q: Can I make this casserole without bacon? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a meatless version of this casserole, you can omit the bacon entirely or substitute it with vegetarian bacon or crispy fried onions for added flavor and texture.
Q: How do I know when the asparagus is cooked through? A: The asparagus should be tender but still slightly crisp when cooked. You can test for doneness by piercing the thickest part of a spear with a fork or knife. If it easily pierces the asparagus, it’s done. Be careful not to overcook the asparagus, as it can become mushy.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: While this casserole is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Reheat thawed leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender asparagus spears, and crispy bacon topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this casserole is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting goodness of this cheesy delight!
