This Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Casserole is a deliciously rich and cheesy side dish perfect for any occasion. Tender asparagus is layered with a creamy soup mixture, topped with a golden panko-parmesan crust, and baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant way to elevate fresh asparagus into a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite main courses.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 bundle of asparagus, boiled until tender, ends trimmed, and cut in half
- Cooking spray
- 10 oz (280 g) can of cream of asparagus soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) half-and-half cream
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup (90 g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup (60 g) panko bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter
Method
1. Prepare the Base:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and place the boiled asparagus into the center in a neat layer.
2. Make the Creamy Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the cream of asparagus soup, half-and-half cream, pepper, garlic powder, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well incorporated.
- Spread the soup mixture over the asparagus, leaving about a 1-inch gap at the edges.
3. Add a Decorative Layer (Optional):
- For presentation, arrange additional asparagus spears on top, facing the opposite direction.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 10 minutes.
5. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the remaining Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
6. Add the Topping:
- After 10 minutes of baking, remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle the topping over the dish.
7. Finish Baking:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or baked ham.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
- Add a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance.
Cooking Tips
- Boil the asparagus just until tender to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- For added flavor, mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme with the soup mixture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Asparagus is a great source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and folate.
- Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein.
- Panko bread crumbs add a light, crispy texture with fewer calories than traditional breadcrumbs.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~230
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the vibrant flavor of asparagus with a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
- A crowd-pleasing side dish with a sophisticated touch.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for special occasions. With its tender asparagus, creamy filling, and crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table. Serve it warm and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors and textures!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use fresh asparagus without boiling?
Yes, but it may need additional time in the oven to ensure tenderness. - Can I substitute the cream of asparagus soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup works well as a substitute. - What can I use instead of half-and-half cream?
Use a mix of milk and heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole (excluding the topping) and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the topping before baking. - Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, Gruyère or cheddar cheese are great alternatives to Parmesan. - How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. - What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. - How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Drain the boiled asparagus thoroughly before assembling the dish. - Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes, cooked chicken or diced ham can be mixed into the soup mixture. - What size casserole dish should I use?
A medium-sized dish, approximately 9×9 inches, works well for this recipe.