“Hug Your Soul” Asparagus Casserole - cooking recipe

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

Preparation

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