“Hug Your Soul” Asparagus Casserole

In ‘The Complete Southern Cookbook’ by Tammy Allgood

• Ready In: 1 hr 15 mins
• Serves: 10

Ingredients

• 3  lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 4  tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2  tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• 3⁄4 cup  shredded parmesan cheese, divided
• 1⁄4 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 2⁄3 cup  soft breadcrumbs
• 1⁄4 teaspoon paprika

Directions

1. Place a large saucepan of water over med-high heat and bring to a boil.
2. Add the asparagus and cook 3 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a 13 x 9 inch baking dish.
4. Drain the asparagus and arrange evenly in the prepared dish; set aside.
5. Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in the same saucepan over medium heat.
6. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
7. Cook 1 minute, whisking constantly.
8. Gradually add the milk; whisk constantly until thick and bubbly, about 4 minutes.
9. Stir in ½ cup of the cheese and the salt.
10. Blend well.
11. Pour over the asparagus and set aside.
12. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and combine with the remaining ¼ cup of cheese, the breadcrumbs, and paprika.
13. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
14. Bake 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
15. Serve warm.