This creamy, cheesy asparagus casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal. With a rich sauce and a bit of heat from pepper jack cheese and red pepper flakes, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- Asparagus
- 2 bunches of asparagus, washed and trimmed
- Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 ounce soft cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- Cheeses
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/3 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish and arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer in the dish.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until well combined.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens, about 5-6 minutes.
- Once thickened, add the Parmesan cheese and Pepper Jack cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the cheese sauce over the center of the asparagus, avoiding the tips as much as possible to prevent them from overcooking.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and red pepper flakes over the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake for 15 minutes. If you prefer your asparagus with a bit more crunch, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top with crumbled bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 minutes to heat the bacon through.
Step 5: Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving, then enjoy this cheesy, savory side dish!
This asparagus casserole pairs well with chicken, pork, or any main course you love. Enjoy! 🧀💚