Asparagus Cracker Casserole
This Asparagus Cracker Casserole features fresh asparagus, a creamy cheese and mayonnaise base, and a golden buttery cracker topping—an easy, flavorful side dish perfect for spring gatherings or holiday tables.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh asparagus ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 15 butter crackers e.g., Ritz, crushed
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the casserole. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Combine Asparagus with Cheese and Mayonnaise
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared asparagus, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly coated. Set aside while the sauce is prepared.
Prepare the White Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once fully melted, whisk in the flour and cook for approximately 1–2 minutes, whisking continuously to prevent browning and to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Season the Sauce
- Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat once fully combined.
Combine All Ingredients
- Pour the prepared sauce over the asparagus mixture and stir gently until the sauce is fully incorporated and the asparagus is evenly coated.
Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
Add the Cracker Topping
- Evenly sprinkle the crushed butter crackers over the top of the casserole.
Bake the Casserole
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. For a crisper topping, broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at the end of the baking time, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm as a side dish.
Notes
To make this casserole gluten-free:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
- Replace the butter crackers with a gluten-free alternative. Many brands offer gluten-free buttery round crackers or crushed gluten-free breadsticks that work well as a topping.
- Always verify that the mayonnaise and cheese are free from gluten-containing additives, particularly if cooking for someone with celiac disease.