A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful casserole featuring tender asparagus, rich cheeses, and crispy bacon. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners, holiday meals, or special occasions.
Description
Tender asparagus is coated in a thick, cheesy cream sauce with Parmesan, Pepper Jack, and a hint of spice, then baked to perfection with crispy bacon on top. Creamy, indulgent, and comforting, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
Introduction
This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole combines fresh vegetables with a rich, creamy sauce and melted cheese for a decadent side dish. Quick to prepare but impressive in flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Asparagus | 2 bunches |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Soft cream cheese | ½ oz |
| Heavy whipping cream | ½ cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 tbsp |
| Italian seasoning | ¼ tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Paprika | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | 1/8 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/8 tsp |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup |
| Pepper Jack cheese, shredded | 1/8 cup |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp |
| Cooked and crumbled bacon | 1/3 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese (for topping) | as needed |
Instructions — Step by Step
Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and trim the asparagus.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking tray and place the asparagus in it.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add soft cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir constantly until ingredients are well blended.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the sauce thickens, whisking constantly to prevent sticking.
- Once thick, add Parmesan cheese and Pepper Jack cheese. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, keeping the tops clear.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and red pepper flakes over the sauce.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 15 minutes. For crunchier asparagus, reduce baking time by 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Finish
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle bacon crumbs on top.
- Bake for an additional 3 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Tips
- Serve as a side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday dinners.
- Adjust the spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
- Simple preparation with impressive results
- Perfect balance of tender asparagus and crispy bacon
- Great for family meals or holiday spreads
Expert Tips
- Keep asparagus tips clear of sauce for visual appeal.
- Whisk constantly when thickening the sauce to prevent burning.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for smoother melting and better flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Cheese Blend: Mix in Gruyère or Fontina for extra richness.
- Vegetable Mix: Add roasted bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
FAQs
- Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and optionally sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top instead. - Can I prepare ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I freeze it?
Yes, assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen or thawed before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is rich, creamy, and indulgent with perfectly tender asparagus and crispy bacon. Quick to make yet impressive in flavor, it’s a side dish that will steal the show at any meal.