This asparagus casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s a family-friendly side dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Table of Contents
The Best Asparagus Casserole Recipe
Recipe Notes
Fresh asparagus is preferred for this dish, but you can also use canned or thawed frozen asparagus. Just remember to drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole. This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing for easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 Ritz crackers or similar, crushed
Step By Step Instructions
Start by combining the asparagus, mayonnaise, and grated cheese in a large bowl. Then, heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and slightly browned. Next, add the minced garlic and flour, stirring to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring to ensure it blends well with the flour mixture. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken slightly, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this creamy sauce over the asparagus mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top it off with the crushed crackers.
Finally, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 40-50 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is bubbly. For an extra touch, broil for 1 minute to achieve a golden-brown cracker topping.
Make Ahead and Leftover Storage
You can prepare this asparagus casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep. Leftovers can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave, making it easy to enjoy this dish more than once!
What to Serve with Asparagus Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, such as creamy garlic chicken, or a savory sausage dish like creamy sausage gnocchi. It also complements lighter fare, such as chicken and rice or turkey taco meal prep, making it a versatile side for any meal.
FAQs
What are the key ingredients in a classic asparagus casserole?
The key ingredients include asparagus, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, flour, milk, and crushed crackers.
How do I make asparagus casserole from scratch?
To make it from scratch, mix asparagus with mayo and cheese, sauté onions and garlic, make a roux, combine everything, and bake.
Can I prepare asparagus casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.
What are some variations for asparagus casserole recipes?
Variations include adding different vegetables, using different cheeses, or making it gluten-free with cornstarch and gluten-free crackers.
How do I ensure my asparagus casserole is not soggy?
To avoid sogginess, drain excess liquid from canned or frozen asparagus before mixing it in the casserole.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This asparagus casserole is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy vegetable dish. With its creamy texture and cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your meals, check out these ideas on Pinterest for a wealth of tasty recipes! Enjoy your cooking!
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Delicious Asparagus Casserole: A Family Favorite
Equipment
- large bowl
- skillet
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 2 pounds asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
- ½ onion diced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 Ritz crackers or similar, crushed
Instructions
- Combine asparagus, mayonnaise, and cheese in a large bowl.
- Sauté onion in oil until soft and browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and flour to the skillet, stirring to create a roux.
- Gradually stir in milk, allowing the sauce to thicken, then season.
- Pour the sauce over the asparagus mixture, combine, and transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with crushed crackers and bake at 375°F for 40-50 minutes.
- Optionally broil for 1 minute to brown the topping.
