Go Back
–+ servings
Asparagus Cracker Casserole

Asparagus Cracker Casserole

Asparagus Cracker Casserole: A creamy, crunchy side dish with fresh asparagus and homemade cheese sauce! No canned soup. Gluten-free options + pro tips for the perfect crispy topping.
No ratings yet
Print Pin
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Asparagus cracker casserole, cheesy asparagus bake, gluten-free asparagus casserole, holiday casserole side dish, Ritz cracker casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs fresh asparagus ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 15 butter crackers such as Ritz, finely crushed
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Adjust oven rack to the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Prepare Asparagus Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine asparagus, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until evenly coated. Set aside.
  • Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1–2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden and fragrant.
  • Prepare Cream Sauce: Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon (3–4 minutes).
  • Season and Combine: Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Pour sauce over the asparagus mixture and fold gently until fully incorporated.
  • Assemble and Bake: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle crushed crackers in an even layer over the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
  • Optional Broiling: For added crispiness, broil the casserole on high for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly cracked pepper or additional cheese, if desired.

Notes

For optimal texture, serve immediately after baking.
Tried this recipe?Mention @ThatOvenFeelin or tag #ThatOvenFeelin!