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Preparation: Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the ends off the asparagus, then lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking tray and lay the asparagus evenly across it.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the soft cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the ingredients are well combined.
Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium/low and allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, continuing to whisk frequently to prevent sticking. Once thickened, incorporate the parmesan and Pepper Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus in the baking tray, taking care to avoid covering the tips of the asparagus. Sprinkle the top with red pepper flakes.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. If you prefer your asparagus with a bit more crunch, consider reducing the baking time by 2-3 minutes.
Add Bacon: Remove the casserole from the oven and evenly distribute the bacon crumbles over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 3 minutes to allow the bacon to integrate into the dish.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, your Cheesy Asparagus Casserole is ready to impress as a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.
This casserole is a testament to the versatility of asparagus, transforming it into a cheesy, savory side dish that’s bound to become a new favorite. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a must-try for any asparagus lover or anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their mealtime.
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