ASPARAGUS AND CRAB CASSEROLE

Asparagus and Crab Casserole image

Yield makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 2/3 cups whole milk
1 ounce Cheddar cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
1 ounce Swiss cheese, grated (1/4 cup)
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
24 fresh asparagus spears
1 pound lump crab meat
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (4 ounces)

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Melt the butter in a saucepan set over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Gradually add the milk and stir until thick and smooth, about 5 minutes. Add the Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, and stir until melted. Add the salt and pepper. Set aside.
Hold an asparagus spear with both hands, about 2 inches from the ends. Gently bend the asparagus until it snaps. It will break at the point where the stem gets too tough to be enjoyable; discard the stem. Repeat for all your asparagus. Cook the asparagus in boiling water until just tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain.
Place the asparagus in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Scatter the crab meat over the asparagus, then pour in the cheese sauce. Sprinkle with the Parmesan, then bake for about 30 minutes or until top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.