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Cheesy Bacon Asparagus Casserole

This cheesy bacon asparagus casserole is a comforting side dish featuring tender asparagus, creamy mushroom soup, melted cheddar, and a crispy topping of Ritz crackers and smoky bacon.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces Choose firm and bright green spears.
  • 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Ritz crackers, crumbled Alternatively, use panko breadcrumbs for a crisper topping.
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled Reserve 2 tbsp of the bacon grease for topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart (9x9-inch) baking dish.
  2. Trim the asparagus and cut it into bite-sized pieces, keeping the tips separate from the stalks.
  3. Boil the asparagus stalks in salted water for about 2 minutes, then add the tips and cook for 1 more minute until crisp-tender. Drain well.
  4. Cook the bacon until crisp, reserving 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease. Crumble the bacon.
  5. Crumble the Ritz crackers and mix with the reserved bacon grease.
Layering and Baking
  1. Layer half of the asparagus in the baking dish, followed by half of the soup and half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
  2. Spread the cracker mixture over the top and add the crumbled bacon.
  3. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Casserole can be prepared ahead of time; just keep topping separate until baking. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently.