This Asparagus Casserole is a creamy delight loaded with fresh asparagus and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
Trust me, this dish makes even the pickiest eaters enjoy veggies. I love how simple it is—just mix, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here! Make sure to choose bright green and firm stalks. If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli can work as great substitutes.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make a quick version with sautéed mushrooms and heavy cream. For a different flavor, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can substitute.
Sour Cream: It adds a nice tangy taste. Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute if you want something healthier. Just make sure to use unflavored yogurt to keep the taste consistent.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. If you want to mix it up, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese can also work well. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
French Fried Onions: These add a crunchy top layer. If you can’t find them, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, tossed with a bit of olive oil, work well for a similar texture.
How Do I Get the Asparagus Perfectly Tender-Crisp?
Blanching asparagus is key for that ideal texture. This method brightens the color while keeping it slightly crunchy. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the trimmed asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes. You want them vibrant and tender yet still crunchy.
- Quickly drain and plunge the asparagus into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep their bright green color!
How to Make Asparagus Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Asparagus Casserole recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes of baking time. Overall, you should set aside around 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be ready when you’re done preparing the casserole.
2. Blanch the Asparagus:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your trimmed and cut asparagus pieces. Blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. After that, drain the asparagus and set it aside. This quick cooking will keep the asparagus bright and colorful!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and the optional lemon juice. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste! Mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the blanched asparagus, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of French fried onions to your creamy mixture. Gently stir everything together until well mixed. Yum, it’s looking good!
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour the delicious mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly in the dish so it cooks nicely.
6. Add Toppings:
For that extra crunch, sprinkle some more shredded cheddar cheese and French fried onions on top of your casserole.
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for it to be bubbly and the top to be a lovely golden brown. The aromas will fill your kitchen!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make serving easier. Now it’s time to enjoy your flavorful and creamy Asparagus Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus! Just be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture. You can either microwave it for a few minutes or let it sit in the fridge overnight. Since frozen asparagus is typically pre-blanched, you can skip the boiling step in the recipe.
What if I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can use a homemade substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon of butter, and seasonings like garlic or onion powder for added flavor. Cook in a saucepan until it thickens, and voila—your own cream of mushroom soup alternative!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for a quick option.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! This casserole is already vegetarian-friendly as it uses cream of mushroom soup and no meat. Just ensure your cream of mushroom soup and French fried onions are vegetarian-friendly, and you’re all set!
