Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a fantastic way to turn a simple vegetable into a decadent, savory side dish. The combination of Pepper Jack and red pepper flakes gives the creamy sauce a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the heavy cream and bacon. By pouring the sauce only over the middle of the stalks, the tips stay slightly exposed and get a lovely roasted texture while the rest of the asparagus becomes tender in that velvety cheese sauce.
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Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Asparagus | 2 bunches |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/3 cup |
| Cooked and crumbled bacon | 1/3 cup |
| Pepper Jack cheese, shredded | 1/8 cup |
| Soft cream cheese | 1/2 ounce |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken broth | 1 tablespoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
How To Make Cheesy Asparagus Casserole:
Step 1: Prep the Asparagus: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash the asparagus and trim the woody ends off. Grease a 9×13-inch baking tray and arrange the asparagus in a single layer.
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Step 2: Build the Sauce Base: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk constantly to ensure the cream cheese melts smoothly into the liquids.
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Step 3: Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer, whisking frequently so it doesn’t scorch on the bottom.
Step 4: Melt the Cheeses: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheeses. Continue stirring until the sauce is glossy and smooth.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce over the center of the asparagus stalks (leave the tips bare for a nice roasted look). If you have extra mozzarella, you can sprinkle it on now along with the red pepper flakes. Bake for 15 minutes.Note: If you prefer your asparagus with a bit more “snap,” check it at the 12/13 minute mark.
Step 6: The Crispy Finish: Remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Bake for an additional 3 minutes to warm the bacon and finish the cheese, then serve immediately.
