This creamy cheesy asparagus casserole is a rich, comforting side dish that turns simple asparagus into a crowd-pleasing favorite. With a velvety cheese sauce, warm spices, and a crispy savory topping, this baked casserole is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want an easy yet indulgent vegetable recipe that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- Asparagus – 2 bunches (about 900 g / 2 lb)
- Butter – 1 Tbsp (14 g)
- Soft cream cheese – ½ oz (15 g)
- Heavy whipping cream – ½ cup (120 ml)
- Chicken broth – 1 Tbsp (15 ml)
- Italian seasoning – ¼ tsp
- Garlic powder – ½ tsp
- Paprika – ¼ tsp
- Salt – ⅛ tsp
- Black pepper – ⅛ tsp
- Grated Parmesan cheese – ⅓ cup (30 g)
- Pepper Jack cheese, shredded – ⅛ cup (15 g)
- Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp
- Cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon, crumbled – ⅓ cup (40 g)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Asparagus
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the asparagus and trim off the woody ends. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish and arrange the asparagus evenly in a single layer.
Step 2: Start the Cheese Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce gently simmer, stirring often, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. This should take 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Continue mixing until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and uniform.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the cheese sauce over the center of the asparagus, leaving the tips mostly uncovered for a nice roasted texture. Sprinkle evenly with red pepper flakes and extra shredded cheese if desired.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the crumbled turkey or beef bacon over the top, then return to the oven for an additional 3 minutes. Serve warm.
Time, Servings, and Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 6
Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
Calories 220–260, Fat 18 g, Protein 8 g, Carbohydrates 7 g
Why This Recipe Is Good
This cheesy asparagus casserole delivers fiber and vitamins from fresh asparagus while healthy fats and protein from dairy help keep you satisfied. It’s a simple way to enjoy more vegetables without sacrificing flavor, making it an excellent side dish for balanced meals.
