The origin of the recipe for Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is not tied to a specific region. However, it’s a popular dish in many parts of the world, especially in regions where asparagus is in season. Asparagus is commonly cultivated in various countries, including the United States, Mexico, Peru, China, and European countries like Germany and France.
Introduction:
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the freshness of asparagus with creamy cheese and crunchy toppings. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a side dish for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Toppings:
- Crispy fried onions
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Tips:
- Choose fresh, firm asparagus spears with tightly closed tips for the best flavor and texture.
- You can blanch the asparagus briefly in boiling water before adding them to the casserole to ensure they’re perfectly tender.
- Customize the cheese blend according to your preference. Gruyere, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese can also be used.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears in the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the asparagus in the baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with optional toppings like crispy fried onions or chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Description:
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a delightful combination of tender asparagus coated in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a comforting side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 11g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 9g
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this classic casserole!