This asparagus casserole is perfect for the holidays or a weeknight dinner.
Blanching the asparagus before assembling the casserole helps to maintain its vibrant green color.
Asparagus Casseroleis a delicious creamy, cheesy side dish that has comfort vibes all over it.
Photo: Jason Donnelly
This casserole is topped with a crunchy whole-wheat panko that is perfectly toasted.
Keep reading for our expert tips, including blanching your asparagus, upping the protein and easy ingredient substitutions.
Put a large pot of water on to boil.
Set a large bowl of ice water near the stove.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small bowl in the microwave, about 30 seconds.
Stir in 12 cup panko; set aside.
Cook 3 pounds asparagus in the boiling water until bright green, about 1 minute.
Drain and transfer to the ice bath.
Let cool for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Arrange the asparagus in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Heat the pot over medium-high heat.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and stir until melted.
Add 1 tablespoon garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add 2 tablespoons flour and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk.
Bring to a boil, whisking constantly.
Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Stir in 5 ounces cream cheese, 12 cup mozzarella and 1 teaspoon salt.
Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus and stir to coat.
Sprinkle the reserved panko mixture on top.
Bake until the asparagus is tender, 12 to 15 minutes.
To make ahead
Prepare through Step 4 and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Let stand at room temperature while the oven preheats.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
Reheat for a minute or more in the microwave.
This casserole is great for freezing and keeping on hand.
Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it in the oven at 350F.
If you store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container, it will remain good for about 3 months.
Don’t forget to label the container with an expiration date.
Asparagus casserole can also be the main course when paired withKale, Quinoa & Apple Salad.
- Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.
