Creamed asparagus is a classic American dish that combines the natural flavors of asparagus with a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe takes fresh asparagus spears and cooks them until tender, then tosses them in a creamy mixture made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese. The result is a side dish that is both comforting and flavorful, perfect for any meal. Serve this creamed asparagus alongside grilled chicken or steak, or enjoy it on its own as a vegetarian option. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the asparagus. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Add the cooked asparagus to the skillet and gently toss to coat the spears with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the creamed asparagus hot as a side dish or as a main course with crusty bread.
- Enjoy!