Elevate your side dish game with our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole recipe. This dish combines tender asparagus spears, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping for a burst of flavor in every bite. Learn how to make this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Blanch the Asparagus:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain and immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Arrange half of the blanched asparagus in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture over the asparagus.
- Repeat with the remaining asparagus and cheese mixture.
4. Create the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the topping is golden brown, and the asparagus is tender.
6. Serve Hot:
- Remove the Cheesy Asparagus Casserole from the oven.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Dish up and enjoy this delectable side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Conclusion (SEO Optimized): Elevate your dining experience with our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole recipe, a delightful side dish that combines the freshness of asparagus with the richness of a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for enhancing family dinners and special occasions with its burst of flavors and satisfying textures. Follow our straightforward steps to create a side dish that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.