Cheesy Asparagus au Gratin

This easy cheesy asparagus au gratin comes together in just 30 minutes with tender roasted asparagus and a rich, creamy Gruyere cheese sauce. It’s the perfect quick and comforting side dish for any dinner table.

Easy Cheesy Asparagus Au Gratin Recipe

• Incredibly easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
• Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly golden on top. It’s a side dish that tastes gourmet but takes minutes to prepare.

Ingredients for Cheesy Asparagus Au Gratin

• Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a crisp-tender texture and bright flavor. You can substitute with broccoli or green beans if desired.
• Olive Oil: Helps the asparagus roast evenly and adds flavor. Butter can be used as a substitute.
• Butter: Creates the base of the roux for the cheese sauce. Margarine or ghee can be substituted.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and savory flavor. Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic isn’t available.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce to create a smooth, velvety texture. Stick with all-purpose flour for this recipe.
• Heavy Cream: Provides a rich, creamy consistency. You can substitute with half and half for a lighter version.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and enhances the cheese flavor. Yellow mustard or a bit of whole-grain mustard can work in a pinch.
• Dried Thyme: Brings subtle earthy notes. Substitute with your favorite dried herbs.
• Rubbed Sage: Adds a hint of warmth and depth. Feel free to swap with dried basil or omit if preferred.
• Gruyere Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a nutty, savory finish. Swiss cheese, white cheddar, or mozzarella can also be used.

How to Make Cheesy Asparagus Au Gratin

Roast the asparagus: Heat oven to 400 degrees. Place trimmed asparagus in an 8×8 baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent browning.

Thicken the sauce: Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, Dijon, thyme, sage, and a couple of pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add the cheese: Stir in half of the shredded Gruyere until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble and bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus. Sprinkle with the remaining Gruyere cheese. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and enjoy: Let cool slightly, then serve warm as a cozy side dish.

Tips for Making Cheesy Asparagus Au Gratin

• For extra flavor, sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers before baking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt, flavor, and texture.
• Don’t overcook the asparagus. It should be tender but still slightly crisp.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can prepare the cheese sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
• When ready to bake, warm the sauce slightly, pour it over the asparagus, top with cheese, and bake as directed.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Cheesy Asparagus Au Gratin

• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• honey glazed crock pot ham
• Dutch oven pot roast
• braised beef short ribs
• oven braised chuck roast
• slow cooker country style ribs

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