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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will give the oven time to heat up while you prepare the casserole.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut it into 2-inch pieces. If you’re unsure how to trim asparagus, simply bend the stalk, and it will naturally break where the tough part ends. You want to keep the tender part for this dish.
3. Blanch the Asparagus:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until the asparagus is bright green and slightly tender. Drain the asparagus and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve the color. Drain again and set aside.
4. Make the Casserole Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be the base for your casserole, binding the asparagus with cheesy goodness.
5. Combine Asparagus with Casserole Mixture:
Add the blanched asparagus to the bowl with the cheese mixture, stirring gently to coat all the asparagus pieces evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Spoon the cheesy asparagus mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well coated with butter, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a crunchy, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy asparagus underneath.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. You’ll want the cheese to be melted, and the top to have that perfect crispiness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The result will be a delicious, cheesy, and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to steak or even as part of a holiday spread.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Some Protein: If you want to turn this casserole into a more hearty meal, consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, or even sausage to the mixture. It will add flavor and make the dish even more filling.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to the casserole.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture. It will give the dish a nice kick that pairs well with the creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this casserole gluten-free, swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy days when you want to save time. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole:
This Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is a dish that will win over even the pickiest of eaters, and it’s an excellent way to get everyone to enjoy asparagus. The tender asparagus pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese mixture, while the crunchy, buttery topping adds a satisfying texture that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a family dinner or simply craving a cozy, comforting side dish, this casserole fits the bill every time.
It’s a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome, giving you the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll find yourself preparing it over and over again!
So, if you’re ready to take your side dish game to the next level, give this Cheesy Asparagus Casserole a try. It’s cheesy, creamy, and comforting—what’s not to love? Happy cooking!
