1.25lbasparagus spearstrimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1tbspolive oilfor roasting
3tbspunsalted butterdivided
0.5cupyellow onionfinely chopped
1tspminced garlic
2.5tbspall-purpose flour
1.5cupwhole milkroom temperature if possible
0.33cupsour cream
1.25cupshredded sharp cheddarpacked lightly
0.25cupgrated Parmesan
1tspkosher saltdivided
0.5tspblack pepper
0.5tspsmoked paprika
0.5cuppanko breadcrumbs
0.5tsplemon zest
0.25tspred pepper flakesoptional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Toss asparagus with olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika.
Spread on a sheet pan and roast 8–10 minutes until crisp-tender. Set aside.
Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Soften onion for 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic for 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and cook, whisking, 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk. Simmer, stirring, until thick and smooth, 3–5 minutes.
Off heat, stir in sour cream, cheddar, Parmesan, lemon zest, remaining salt, pepper, and flakes.
Combine roasted asparagus and cheese sauce in the baking dish. Spread evenly.
Melt remaining 1 tbsp butter. Toss with panko until evenly moistened.
Scatter crumbs over casserole. Bake 15–18 minutes until bubbling and golden. Rest 5 minutes.
Notes
Variation: Swap half the cheddar for Gruyère, or add cooked bacon bits to the topping. To prep ahead, assemble without crumbs, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then add crumbs and bake, adding 5–10 minutes.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cheesy Asparagus Casserole Delight flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.