Asparagus and Cheese Casserole

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Asparagus and Cheese Casserole

Description:

This Asparagus and Cheese Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that combines the freshness of asparagus with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to weeknight dinners. This recipe was a childhood favorite, and now you can recreate it with ease! The dish is both flavorful and satisfying, with a golden, crispy top and tender asparagus underneath, offering a perfect balance of textures.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears)

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)

  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

  2. Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut them into uniform lengths, roughly 4-5 inches long. If the asparagus is thick, you can also blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften them.

  3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour forms a paste.

    • Slowly whisk in the heavy cream (or milk) and continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

    • Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat. Mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth.

  4. Assemble the Casserole: Place the asparagus in the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, making sure to coat all the spears.

  5. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve hot as a delicious side dish.

Notes:

  • Cheese Variations: You can use a mix of different cheeses, such as cheddar, parmesan, or Gruyère, to enhance the flavor. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar gives a nice balance of creaminess and sharpness.

  • Make it Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.

  • Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.

Tips:

  • Asparagus Tips: Make sure to snap off the tough ends of the asparagus. If you find the spears too thick, blanching them will help soften them up before baking.

  • For Extra Crunch: If you like a crunchy top, add breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to the top of the casserole before baking.

  • Serving Suggestion: This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a main dish for a vegetarian meal.

Servings:

  • This recipe serves about 4-6 people as a side dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 210 kcal

  • Carbs: 8g

  • Protein: 7g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: 300mg

Benefits:

  • Low in Carbs: This casserole is a great option for low-carb and keto diets due to the low amount of carbs in asparagus and the creamy, cheese-based sauce.

  • High in Fiber: Asparagus is rich in fiber, which supports digestion and promotes satiety.

  • Packed with Nutrients: Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, and it also contains folate and antioxidants.

  • Rich in Healthy Fats: The combination of butter, cream, and cheese provides healthy fats that help keep you satisfied.

Q&A for Recipe:

  • Q: Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using them in the casserole.

  • Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Add extra time to bake if it’s cold from the fridge.

  • Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

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