Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
# **Optimized Cheesy Asparagus Casserole Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Side Dish**
**Meta Description:**
*This **Cheesy Asparagus Casserole** is a creamy, comforting side dish featuring fresh asparagus, melty cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for holidays or easy weeknight dinners!*
## **Cheesy Asparagus Casserole: A Comforting Side Dish Everyone Will Love**
There’s something magical about a dish that’s both elegant and comforting—like this **Cheesy Asparagus Casserole**. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving a cozy weeknight side, this **easy asparagus casserole** delivers. Tender asparagus spears are smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust for the perfect bite.
I first made this **asparagus cheese casserole** for a potluck, and it disappeared faster than dessert! Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially during **asparagus season**. It’s versatile—swap cheeses, add cayenne for heat, or toss in crispy bacon for indulgence. If you love dishes like my [Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes](https://exorecipes.com/creamy-garlic-mashed-potatoes), you’ll adore this one.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole**
This isn’t just another vegetable side—it’s a **showstopper casserole** with crowd-pleasing appeal. Here’s why it’s a winner:
– **Perfect texture** – Crisp-tender asparagus meets a luscious, creamy cheese sauce.
– **Make-ahead friendly** – Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
– **Crowd-pleaser** – Even veggie skeptics ask for seconds.
– **Adaptable** – Works with fresh or frozen asparagus.
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## **How to Make Cheesy Asparagus Casserole**
### **Ingredients You’ll Need**
– 1 ½ lbs **fresh asparagus**, trimmed
– 3 tbsp **butter**
– 3 tbsp **flour** (for roux)
– 1 ½ cups **whole milk**
– 1 cup **shredded sharp cheddar**
– ½ cup **grated Parmesan**
– ½ cup **breadcrumbs**
– 1 tsp **garlic powder**
– **Salt & pepper** to taste
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prep the asparagus** – Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then plunge into ice water. Drain and pat dry.
2. **Make the cheese sauce** – Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheeses until melted.
3. **Assemble** – Arrange asparagus in a baking dish, pour cheese sauce over top, and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
4. **Bake** – At **375°F for 20–25 minutes** until bubbly and golden. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
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## **Tips for the Best Asparagus Casserole**
Want to elevate this **easy casserole recipe**? Try these tricks:
– Add **lemon zest** to the sauce for brightness.
– Mix **panko breadcrumbs with melted butter** for extra crunch.
– For a lighter version, swap half the milk with **vegetable broth** (asparagus is [packed with nutrients](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/asparagus-benefits)).
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## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**
### **Can I use frozen asparagus?**
Yes! Thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
### **What cheese works best?**
Gruyère or Gouda are delicious swaps for cheddar.
### **How do I store leftovers?**
Cover and refrigerate for up to **3 days**. Reheat in the oven.
### **Can I freeze this casserole?**
Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight before baking as directed.
### **What pairs well with it?**
Try it with [Herb-Crusted Salmon](https://exorecipes.com/herb-crusted-salmon) or roasted chicken.
### **How do I prevent a soggy topping?**
Toast breadcrumbs separately and add them in the last 5 minutes of baking.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Cheesy Asparagus Casserole** is as delightful to make as it is to eat—**comfort food at its finest**! If you love veggie-forward dishes, try my [Roasted Brussels Sprouts Gratin](https://exorecipes.com/roasted-brussels-sprouts-gratin). **Happy cooking!**
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### **SEO Optimization Summary**
✅ **Primary keyword** (“Cheesy Asparagus Casserole”) in first paragraph & headings
✅ **Related keywords** (asparagus casserole, easy casserole recipe, cheese sauce, side dish) naturally integrated
✅ **Proper heading structure** (H2, H3) for readability
✅ **Short paragraphs** (2-3 sentences max)
✅ **Bullet points & numbered lists** for scannability
✅ **Internal & external links** for authority
✅ **Engaging, conversational tone**
This version keeps the original meaning while improving **SEO, readability, and user engagement**. 🚀
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
Description
A creamy, cheesy asparagus casserole with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect as a side dish for holidays or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the casserole:
- 2 lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 2. Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to ice water. Drain and pat dry.
- 3. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux (cook 1 minute).
- 4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- 5. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cheddar, and Parmesan until cheeses melt.
- 6. Arrange asparagus in baking dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over top.
- 7. Combine topping ingredients in bowl. Sprinkle evenly over casserole.
- 8. Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For crispier topping, broil for last 2-3 minutes. Can substitute Gruyère for cheddar. Leftovers keep refrigerated for 3 days.
