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Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

This **Cheesy Asparagus Casserole** is a **creamy, savory, and delicious** side dish that brings together **tender asparagus, a rich cheese sauce, and a crispy topping** for the perfect bite. It’s an **easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish** that pairs well with **chicken, beef, or seafood**, making it great for **weeknight dinners, holidays, or special occasions**.
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Equipment

  • - 9x13 baking dish
  • - Large skillet or saucepan
  • Whisk
  • - Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • - 1 1/2 lbs fresh asparagus trimmed
  • - 2 tablespoons butter
  • - 2 cloves garlic minced
  • - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • - 1 cup milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess
  • - 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard for depth of flavor
  • - 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter for breadcrumbs
  • - Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions
 

  • #### **Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Asparagus**
  • Preheat oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
  • Trim **woody ends off the asparagus** and arrange in a **lightly greased 9x13 baking dish**.
  • #### **Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce**
  • In a **large skillet**, melt **butter** over medium heat.
  • Add **garlic** and sauté for **30 seconds** until fragrant.
  • Whisk in **flour** and cook for **1 minute** to form a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in **milk, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard**.
  • Simmer for **2-3 minutes** until slightly thickened.
  • Remove from heat and stir in **1 cup cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan** until melted.
  • #### **Step 3: Assemble & Bake**
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, ensuring even coverage.
  • In a small bowl, mix **breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter**.
  • Sprinkle the remaining **1/2 cup cheddar, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and breadcrumbs** over the top.
  • Bake for **20-25 minutes** until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  • #### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy**
  • Remove from oven and garnish with **fresh parsley** if desired.
  • Serve warm alongside **grilled meats, pasta, or as a holiday side dish**.