Get ready to revolutionize your side dish game with this mouthwatering Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole that will make even veggie skeptics beg for seconds! Imagine tender asparagus smothered in creamy mushroom sauce, topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, all prepared in a fraction of the traditional cooking time. This recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that's not just delicious, but surprisingly easy to whip up in your air fryer.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the cooking basket is clean and lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
- Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the tough woody ends. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and easier serving.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with salt and pepper. Gently fold the asparagus pieces into the soup mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated asparagus into a air fryer-safe casserole dish or aluminum foil pan that fits inside your air fryer basket.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the asparagus mixture.
- Distribute breadcrumbs uniformly across the cheese layer to create a crispy topping.
- Carefully place the casserole dish into the air fryer basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, checking midway to ensure even browning.
- The casserole is done when the asparagus is tender, the top is golden brown, and the cheese is melted and slightly crispy.
- Remove from air fryer and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with additional fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Select firm, bright green asparagus with tight, compact tips for the best texture and flavor.
- Trimming Matters: Always cut off the woody ends of asparagus to ensure a tender bite. A quick snap or precise knife cut works perfectly.
- Even Coating is Key: When mixing asparagus with cream of mushroom soup, ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: If your air fryer basket is small, consider cooking in batches to maintain crispy edges and even cooking.
- Watch the Browning: Every air fryer is slightly different, so check your casserole midway through cooking to prevent over-browning.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 3-5 minutes after cooking helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Experiment with adding garlic powder, dried herbs, or a splash of white wine to the soup mixture for extra depth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
