Follow these simple steps to make the Best Easy Asparagus Casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus and trim off the tough, woody ends. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain the asparagus well and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Fold in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the blanched asparagus. Mix gently to coat the asparagus in the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the asparagus mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole to form a crispy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. If the topping isn’t as golden as you’d like, you can broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy this creamy, savory side dish with your favorite main course!
Serving and Storage
To Serve: The Best Easy Asparagus Casserole is perfect as a side dish for almost any main course. It pairs wonderfully with roast chicken, beef, pork, or a vegetarian entrée. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The casserole may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating, but it will still taste delicious!
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. You may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time if cooking from frozen.
Tips
Here are some tips to make your Best Easy Asparagus Casserole even better:
- Customize with other vegetables: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower for a more hearty casserole. Just make sure to cook them before adding them to the mixture.
- Try different cheeses: Swap out the cheddar cheese for other varieties, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère, for different flavors.
- Make it gluten-free: To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
- Use fresh asparagus: For the best texture and flavor, always use fresh asparagus rather than frozen, as frozen asparagus can become mushy when baked.
- Add a little spice: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture for a subtle kick.
Conclusion
The Best Easy Asparagus Casserole is a quick and easy side dish that is full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, tender asparagus, and crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a hit at the table. Try it today and enjoy a simple yet delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your meals!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
- While fresh asparagus works best for this recipe, you can use frozen asparagus if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess water.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Add a few extra minutes of baking time if necessary.
- Can I add meat to this casserole?
- Yes! You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the casserole for extra flavor and protein. Just be sure to chop the meat into small pieces and add it to the creamy mixture before baking.
- Can I use a different soup?
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup, or even make your own creamy base using heavy cream and seasonings. However, the cream of mushroom soup adds a distinct flavor to the casserole that complements the asparagus.