Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash and trim the asparagus, then grease a 9 x 13-inch baking tray and arrange the asparagus in it. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined.

Lower the heat to medium-low and bring the sauce to a simmer until the heavy whipping cream has reduced and thickened. Continuously whisk to prevent sticking. After a few minutes, once the sauce is thickened, add the Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus in the center of the casserole, avoiding the tips. Finally, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese sauce.

Bake for 15 minutes. For a crunchier texture, reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle bacon crumbs on top. Return to the oven for an additional 3 minutes. Enjoy!

Credit: FoodWorld