Asparagus Casserole with Cheese

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Cheesy Asparagus Bake

This Cheesy Asparagus Bake transforms fresh asparagus into a creamy, flavorful side dish. The blend of Pepper Jack cheese and red pepper flakes gives it a gentle kick, perfectly complementing the rich sauce made with cream and bacon. By pouring the sauce over the center of the stalks, the tips stay uncovered and roast slightly, while the rest becomes tender in the smooth, cheesy mixture.

Ingredients

2 bunches asparagus
½ cup heavy cream
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
⅛ cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
½ oz softened cream cheese
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp chicken broth
½ tsp red pepper flakes
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp paprika
⅛ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the asparagus, trim off the tough ends, and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish in a single layer.

Step 2: Create the Sauce
In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth.

Step 3: Let It Simmer
Lower the heat slightly and allow the sauce to gently simmer, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Mix in the Cheese
Once the sauce thickens, add the Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheese. Stir until everything is melted and the sauce looks silky.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the sauce along the center of the asparagus, leaving the tips uncovered. If you like, add a bit of extra cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top. Bake for about 15 minutes, or check earlier if you prefer firmer asparagus.

Step 6: Add the Bacon
Take the dish out, scatter the crumbled bacon over the top, and return it to the oven for another 3 minutes to heat through. Serve while hot.

0 1 minute read