Description
This cozy, low-carb casserole transforms tender asparagus into a luscious, cheese-forward dish perfect for keto plans, featuring crispy beef bacon and a creamy three-cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds fresh asparagus spears
- 8 slices thick-cut beef bacon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 medium shallot, finely minced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash asparagus, snap or cut off the woody ends, and blanch in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes. Plunge into ice water to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
- Cook beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess grease and crumble.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots for 3–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese, whisking until melted. Slowly add heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
- Add cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese, whisking over low heat until fully melted.
- Season sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Layer asparagus in the dish, top with beef bacon, pour the cheese sauce over, and sprinkle with remaining bacon and Parmesan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Optional: broil for extra crispness.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Notes
For a smokier flavor, add liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the sauce. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: asparagus, keto, casserole, cheesy, low-carb, side dish