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Asparagus Casserole with Parmesan and Panko Topping Recipe

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4.2 from 25 reviews

This creamy and savory Asparagus Casserole is a delightful side dish perfect for spring and summer meals. Tender asparagus spears are smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, topped with a buttery Panko and Parmesan crust, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, elegant recipe that complements a variety of main courses.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Asparagus

  • 2 lbs asparagus (trimmed)

Sauce

  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided, plus more to grease casserole)
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half and half (or equal parts milk and heavy cream)
  • 2 tsp garlic salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (divided)

Topping

  • 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400˚F with the rack positioned in the center. Butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Arrange the trimmed asparagus evenly in the prepared dish, pressing them down gently to create a flat and even surface.
  2. Make the Sauce: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and melt 3 tablespoons of the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 3 minutes, until the butter mixture starts to turn golden, indicating the roux is cooked. Gradually whisk in the half and half, followed by garlic salt and black pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat, then sprinkle in half of the Parmesan cheese and whisk until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  3. Combine and Bake: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the asparagus in the casserole dish, leaving about a 1-inch border along the long sides for a neat presentation. Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake at 400˚F for 15-18 minutes or until the asparagus reaches your preferred tenderness.
  4. Prepare Topping and Mid-Bake Addition: While the casserole bakes, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small bowl. Mix in the Panko bread crumbs until they’re evenly coated with butter. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese to create the topping. About halfway through the baking time, remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle the topping over it. Return the casserole to the oven to finish baking.
  5. Broil for Crispness and Serve: Once the asparagus is tender and the casserole has finished baking, switch the oven to broil. Broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes or until the bread crumb topping turns golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven carefully and allow to cool slightly before serving for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm asparagus for the best texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half and half with milk and reduce butter slightly.
  • The baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus; thinner spears will require less time.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour and Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Make sure to watch the casserole closely during broiling to prevent burning the topping.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/asparagus-casserole-with-parmesan-and-panko-topping-recipe/