Name: Asparagus au Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed; 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons flour; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 3 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese; Drizzle of olive oil

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting yet elegant way to enjoy fresh asparagus, this Asparagus au Gratin Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes. Bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness and flavored with fragrant herbs and Dijon mustard, it transforms simple asparagus into a luscious treat that feels both special and homey. Whether served as a side for a weeknight dinner or as a highlight at your next gathering, this recipe balances rich textures and vibrant flavors in a way that delights every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a bundle of fresh green asparagus with purple tips. Surrounding the asparagus are seven small white bowls and a plate: at the top center is a white bowl with cream, next to it a small white bowl with yellow Dijon mustard. To the right, a white bowl holds white flour, and next to it a smaller white bowl contains green dried herbs. At the bottom right is a white bowl filled with shredded pale yellow Gruyere cheese. Below the asparagus to the left is a white bowl with finely chopped light yellow garlic, and next to it a small white plate holds a block of butter. Each ingredient is clearly visible with natural textures and colors on the clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Asparagus au Gratin Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender asparagus to the nutty Gruyere cheese and the subtle blend of herbs, every component contributes to one unforgettable dish.

1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed: Fresh asparagus brings a crisp, green base that stands up perfectly to the creamy sauce.
Drizzle of olive oil: Helps to lightly coat and season the asparagus before baking, adding a subtle fruitiness.
2 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and serves as the foundation for the cheese sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
2 tablespoons flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the asparagus.
3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes this dish irresistibly smooth.
4 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the richness and complements the Gruyere.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings earthy herbal notes that pair perfectly with the cheese and mustard.
1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage: Adds warmth and a gentle woodsy flavor, elevating the dish’s complexity.
3 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese: This is the star cheese that melts into a creamy, nutty blanket over the asparagus.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Crucial seasonings that balance all the flavors and bring everything to life.

How to Make Asparagus au Gratin Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees. Place your trimmed asparagus in an 8×8 baking dish, then drizzle a little olive oil over the top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss everything together so every stalk is evenly coated. This step ensures the asparagus roasts to tender perfection with a light seasoning base.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In a large sauté pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter gently. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to keep it from browning. This quick sizzle releases the garlic’s aromatic flavor without any bitterness, setting the tone for the creamy sauce to come.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Next, sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic and stir continuously for 1 minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste while forming the base for your sauce. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, sage, plus generous pinches of salt and pepper. Keep cooking for a few minutes to warm the mixture and allow it to thicken slightly — you’re aiming for a smooth, velvety texture.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in half of your shredded Gruyere cheese until melted completely. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This cheese-filled sauce brings the creamy, savory magic that defines the Asparagus au Gratin Recipe.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious cheese sauce evenly over the asparagus in your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the top is beautifully browned and bubbling — that’s the signal it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Asparagus au Gratin Recipe

A white square baking dish filled with two layers showing from the top: the bottom layer is a neat row of green asparagus tips placed upright side by side, while the top layer is a creamy white sauce sprinkled with shredded white cheese over it, all the asparagus tips surrounded by the sauce, set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a simple yet eye-catching finish, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top right before serving. This adds a splash of vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy gratin.

Side Dishes

This Asparagus au Gratin Recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. The richness of the dish complements proteins and adds a delightful vegetable serving with sophistication and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or elegant gratin dishes. Or, use the Asparagus au Gratin as a decadent topping over toasted baguette slices for an irresistible appetizer that will wow your guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Asparagus au Gratin Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools, but it will be just as tasty once reheated gently.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by transferring the dish into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. To avoid sogginess, it’s best to reheat thoroughly in the oven rather than microwaving.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Asparagus au Gratin in a baking dish and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through and bubbly, about 15 minutes. This method helps revive the creamy texture and keeps the cheese topping deliciously melted.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

While fresh asparagus is preferred for its texture and flavor, frozen asparagus can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before assembling the dish to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?

If you don’t have Gruyere handy, Emmental, Swiss, or even a mild sharp cheddar can work. Just choose a cheese that melts well and has a slightly nutty flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written includes flour as a thickener, which contains gluten. You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep it gluten-free without compromising the creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy cream, and replace Gruyere with a vegan cheese that melts well. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift somewhat.

How can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Prepare the asparagus with the sauce and assemble the dish a few hours ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake just before serving to enjoy the best texture and warm melted cheese.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels indulgent without fuss, this Asparagus au Gratin Recipe will win your heart and your guests’ too. It’s a perfect combination of fresh, creamy, and cheesy that brings simple asparagus to a whole new delicious level. So don’t hesitate—grab some fresh asparagus and give this comforting classic a try tonight!