A simple creamy gratin of white asparagus and Roquefort.
introduction
This White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin is rich, simple, and full of flavor. It uses tender white asparagus, a creamy Roquefort sauce, and a crisp breadcrumb top. If you like rich creamy dishes, try a related idea like creamy white chicken enchiladas for another easy meal.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, elegant side or a light main. It needs few ingredients and little hands-on time. The Roquefort gives a bold cheese flavor that lifts plain asparagus. It also looks nice on the table.
how to make White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin
You will cook the asparagus, make a simple cheese cream, and bake until bubbly and golden. Work in this order: trim and boil the asparagus, heat the cream with the Roquefort until smooth, pour over asparagus in a baking dish, add breadcrumbs and butter, then bake.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb white asparagus
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz roquefort cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Trim the white asparagus and simmer in salted water for about 10 minutes until tender.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and mix in the crumbled roquefort cheese until melted.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the cooked asparagus in a baking dish, pour the cheese sauce over the top, and sprinkle breadcrumbs.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
how to serve White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin
Serve hot straight from the oven. It goes well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a simple green salad. For a light meal, add crusty bread and a glass of white wine.
how to store White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin
Cool the gratin to room temperature. Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warm, about 10–15 minutes. Do not freeze; the cream may separate.
tips to make White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin
- Trim asparagus well so all spears cook evenly.
- Don’t overcook the asparagus; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Warm the cream slowly to melt the cheese without burning.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a nicer crunch.
- Taste the sauce before baking and add pepper; Roquefort is salty, so add salt carefully.
variation (if any)
- Use blue cheese or Gorgonzola instead of Roquefort for a milder blue flavor.
- Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cream for a tangy kick.
- Add grated Gruyère on top with the breadcrumbs for extra melt and color.
FAQs
Q: Can I use green asparagus instead of white?
A: Yes. Green asparagus cooks faster, so reduce the simmer time to 5–7 minutes.
Q: Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the texture will be lighter.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can assemble it and keep it in the fridge unbaked for a few hours, then bake when ready. Do not keep it assembled for more than a day.
White Asparagus Roquefort Gratin
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy gratin featuring tender white asparagus and bold Roquefort cheese, topped with a crisp breadcrumb layer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb white asparagus
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz roquefort cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Trim the white asparagus and simmer in salted water for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan and mix in the crumbled roquefort cheese until melted.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the cooked asparagus in a baking dish, pour the cheese sauce over the top, and sprinkle breadcrumbs.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
Serve hot straight from the oven. Pairs well with roasted chicken or a simple salad. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg