This Asparagus Casserole is the perfect way to elevate fresh asparagus into a creamy, cheesy side dish. With a rich sauce made from mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, and topped with crispy Panko breadcrumbs, this casserole is bursting with flavor. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or as a delicious side for special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this cheesy asparagus casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
- Place the trimmed asparagus into the casserole dish and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly in the seasoning.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus, then sprinkle the Panko breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake the casserole for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the asparagus is tender.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Asparagus Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that elevates fresh asparagus into a flavorful side dish. The rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheese sauce complements the natural earthy flavor of the asparagus, while the Panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy and impressive way to serve vegetables at your next dinner, making it a perfect side for both casual meals and special occasions.
Tips
- Trim the Asparagus: Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before using. The easiest way is to snap them off by hand.
- Don’t Overcook the Asparagus: Keep an eye on the asparagus while baking, as you want it tender but not mushy.
- Use Fresh Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives the best flavor and texture for this casserole. Frozen asparagus can be used in a pinch but may result in a softer dish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese Options: You can swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.
- Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, sauté some minced garlic in the butter before adding the flour.
- Make it Gluten-Free: To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and omit the Panko breadcrumbs or replace them with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
FAQs
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Simply cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through. - Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, frozen asparagus can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before assembling the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with Roasted Meats: Serve this Asparagus Casserole as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef for a hearty meal.
- Pair with Grilled Foods: It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as steak, pork chops, or lamb.
- Great for Holidays: This casserole makes an excellent side for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Easter, offering a fresh, cheesy alternative to traditional vegetable sides.
- Light Lunch or Brunch: Serve this casserole as a light lunch or brunch dish with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Asparagus Casserole
6
servings5
minutes20
minutesIngredients
1 ½ pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
- Place the trimmed asparagus into the casserole dish and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly in the seasoning.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus, then sprinkle the Panko breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake the casserole for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the asparagus is tender.
Leave a Reply