Description
A creamy, comforting asparagus casserole that makes the perfect side dish for any meal. This versatile recipe can be prepared ahead of time and customized with various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or mixture)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and place in ice water to stop cooking. Pat dry and arrange in the baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and broth, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until cheese is melted.
- Pour sauce evenly over asparagus. Top with remaining shredded cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, remaining Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve.
- To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
- This recipe works well with other vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
Keywords: asparagus casserole, vegetable side dish, make-ahead, spring recipe, comfort food
