Description
Rustic cheesy asparagus casserole presents simple comfort from Southern kitchens with creamy layers of fresh vegetables and rich cheese. Home cooks can enjoy this hearty side dish that blends classic ingredients into a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 bunches asparagus
- ½ cup (118 ml/4 fl oz) grated mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup (79 ml/2.7 fl oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 cup (30 ml/1 fl oz) grated pepper jack cheese
- ¼ oz (7 g) softened cream cheese
- ¼ cup (59 ml/2 fl oz) heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp (15 ml/0.5 fl oz) butter
- ¼ cup (59 ml/2 fl oz) crumbled bacon (cooked)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml/0.5 fl oz) chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray, ensuring complete coverage.
- Asparagus Arrangement: Clean asparagus, trim woody ends, and spread in a single layer across the prepared baking dish.
- Sauce Creation: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt butter and blend cream cheese until smooth. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper), simmering until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Cheese Incorporation: Fold in Parmesan and pepper jack cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and fully integrated.
- Casserole Assembly: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus, then top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added zest.
- Baking Process: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until asparagus becomes tender and cheese turns golden and bubbling.
- Final Touch: Scatter crumbled bacon over the surface, return to oven for an additional 3-4 minutes to crisp the bacon, then remove and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Prep Asparagus Perfectly: Trim woody ends by bending each spear until it naturally snaps, ensuring only tender parts remain for a delicious texture.
- Control Sauce Consistency: Whisk continuously while adding cream and broth to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety sauce that coats asparagus evenly.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Remove skillet from heat when adding cheeses to prevent burning and ensure a creamy, well-integrated sauce.
- Bacon Crispness Tip: Use pre-cooked bacon or cook separately to maintain optimal crunchiness when added at the final baking stage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg