This Thanksgiving, elevate your side dish game with a scrumptious Asparagus Casserole. Made with fresh asparagus, creamy sauce, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole will be a hit on your holiday table. The combination of tender asparagus, velvety sauce, and crunchy topping creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Serve this dish alongside your turkey and watch your guests swoon over this delectable Thanksgiving treat.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs asparagus, trimmed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cooked asparagus in a greased casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Asparagus is often considered a luxury vegetable due to its higher cost and labor-intensive harvesting.
The Greeks and Romans believed that asparagus possessed medicinal properties and used it to treat various ailments.
Asparagus is a rich source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and fiber.