Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Key Ingredients:
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star of this dish, lending a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture. If needed, swap with green beans for a similar feel, or even broccoli florets for a twist.
Cream Cheese: Adds a silky texture to the sauce, helping it coat each piece of asparagus. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best richness, but low-fat can work if you’re looking to lighten it up.

Heavy Whipping Cream: This creates the base for a creamy sauce. Half-and-half is a possible substitute, though it will yield a slightly thinner sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Grate it fresh for the best melt, or substitute with Pecorino Romano for a similar but slightly saltier taste.

Pepper Jack Cheese: A hint of spice from the pepper jack cheese gives the sauce a little extra kick. If you prefer milder flavors, Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar works well.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella on top makes for a gorgeous golden layer and that perfect cheese-pull effect. Feel free to substitute with provolone for a similar melt.

Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but this ingredient adds a gentle warmth that complements the creaminess. Adjust or omit based on your heat preference.
Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon bits bring out the richness of the sauce and add an irresistible texture contrast. Omit for a vegetarian-friendly option, or use turkey bacon if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Asparagus
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will allow the casserole to bake evenly.
Prepare the Asparagus:
Rinse the asparagus thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Trim off the tough ends by snapping or cutting the bottom inch or two of each spear.

Arrange in Baking Dish:
Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the dish for even cooking.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Melt the Butter:
In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. This will form the base of the sauce.

Combine Cream Cheese and Cream:
Add 1/2 ounce of softened cream cheese to the butter and stir until melted.
Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously.

Add Seasonings:
Add 1 tablespoon of chicken broth, 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
Whisk the mixture until everything is well combined.

Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the sauce to simmer, whisking to prevent sticking.
Let it gently boil until the cream reduces and thickens slightly.
Add the Cheeses:
Once the sauce has thickened, add 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/8 cup of grated pepper jack cheese.
Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assembling the Casserole
Pour the Cheese Sauce:
Carefully pour the sauce over the asparagus in the baking dish, aiming to pour it down the center.

Add Mozzarella and Red Pepper Flakes:
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if desired.
Baking the Casserole
First Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the asparagus to cook and the cheese to melt. If you prefer crunchier asparagus, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.

Add Bacon:
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle 1/3 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon over the top for added flavor and texture.

Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven for an additional 3 minutes to heat the bacon through.

Serving
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set, then serve warm. This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main.