Savor the Flavor: Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Introduction: Delight your taste buds with our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole, a delectable dish that combines the freshness of asparagus with the comforting creaminess of cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect addition to any meal or holiday gathering. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup low-fat milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Asparagus:
    • Wash the asparagus spears and trim off the tough ends. Cut the spears into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Cook the Asparagus:
    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the asparagus and set aside.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Arrange the blanched asparagus in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
  6. Top with Parmesan Cheese:
    • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a delicious cheesy crust.
  7. Bake the Casserole:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve Hot:
    • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of the casserole)
  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 13g

Smart WW Points:

  • Each serving of Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is approximately 6 Smart WW Points, based on the ingredients used and serving size.

Conclusion: Treat yourself to the creamy goodness of our Cheesy Asparagus Casserole, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course, this casserole is sure to impress. With its rich cheese sauce and tender asparagus, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of spring. Try it today and savor every cheesy bite!