Delicious Thanksgiving Asparagus Casserole Recipe

4 stars
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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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Place the cooked asparagus in a greased casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  9. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
  11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  13. 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.