Looking for a side dish that will steal the show at your next dinner gathering? This creamy cheesy asparagus casserole might just be what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender asparagus, rich cheese, and a crispy topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an easy way to get more veggies onto your plate without sacrificing flavor.
Imagine a casserole that combines the freshness of asparagus with a creamy sauce and a crunchy topping. This recipe is perfect for springtime celebrations or even holiday feasts. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that will elevate any meal you serve.
Overview of the Dish
This asparagus casserole shines as a standout side for any meal, combining textures and flavors that appeal to a variety of palates.
The vibrant green asparagus not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh taste to the dish.
Mixed with a creamy cheese sauce, it creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress your guests.
Flavor Profile
The marriage of creamy cheese and tender asparagus generates a harmonious balance of flavors.
The cheese sauce envelops each piece of asparagus, enhancing the natural taste while providing a rich, savory experience with every bite.
Top it off with crispy breadcrumbs, and you have a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish even further.
Preparation Steps
Getting this casserole ready is straightforward, making it an excellent option for gatherings.
Start by blanching the asparagus, which preserves its bright color and crispness, while also softening it slightly.
Next, mix the asparagus with a creamy sauce that features cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and garlic powder—this blend adds depth and flavor that complements the asparagus beautifully.
Baking Process
Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and layer with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Baking at 350°F allows the casserole to develop a bubbly, golden top that signals it’s ready to be enjoyed.
The aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is versatile and pairs perfectly with various main courses.
It serves well alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian spread.
Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance both presentation and flavor—this small touch can make a big difference in your dish’s overall appeal.
Nutrition and Portions
This creamy cheesy asparagus casserole makes six servings, making it ideal for family meals or small gatherings.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, offering a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates.
With its rich taste and nutritious ingredients, this dish is a great way to enjoy more vegetables on your plate without sacrificing flavor.
Delicious Creamy Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
This asparagus casserole is a rich and savory dish featuring perfectly cooked asparagus, enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The taste is a wonderful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a subtle freshness from the asparagus.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched asparagus and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup mixture. Stir to coat the asparagus evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the asparagus mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Add Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy cheesy asparagus casserole!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g