Description
Creamy Asparagus Casserole
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic powder
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Asparagus:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the asparagus for 12-15 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
Make the Cream Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the garlic powder and cook for 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Casserole:
Arrange the roasted asparagus in a greased casserole dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the asparagus, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for a nice crunch.
Bake:
Bake the casserole in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this creamy and comforting asparagus casserole as a side dish or a main!
This creamy asparagus casserole is a perfect way to enjoy a healthy veggie with a rich and savory flavor!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thoroughly wash and trim the tough ends from 1 lb of asparagus. Toss the spears with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Roast for 12-15 minutes. While roasting, make the sauce: melt 1 tbsp butter in a saucepan, add 1 tsp garlic powder, and cook for 1 minute. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and whisk in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce.
Transfer the roasted asparagus to a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle 1/4 cup breadcrumbs over the sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. For a classic dinner, serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, it complements a quiche or lentil loaf perfectly. To add freshness, top each serving with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before eating. For a heartier meal, mix in cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham with the asparagus before adding the sauce.
How-to Summary
Trim and roast asparagus spears. Create a creamy cheese sauce with garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Combine in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus? Yes, but thaw and pat it completely dry first to avoid a watery casserole. You may skip the roasting step and add it directly to the dish.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time? Assemble the dish completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What are good cheese substitutes? For a different flavor, try Gruyère or Fontina. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through to maintain texture.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the asparagus during the initial roast; it will bake further in the casserole. Ensure your cream sauce is smooth and not boiling vigorously when adding cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate. Do not skip greasing your casserole dish to prevent sticking. Finally, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This creamy asparagus casserole transforms a simple vegetable into a decadent, crowd-pleasing side dish. With its perfect balance of tender asparagus, rich cheese sauce, and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a flawless result every time. Enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of this easy-to-make dish.