Neely's Asparagus Casserole

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter melted
• 2 tablespoons optional: dill chopped
• 2  eggs 
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 cup gruyere cheese grated
• 1 cup cup heavy whipping cream 
• 1 medium onion diced finely
• 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs 
• 0.3 cup parmesan grated
• 6 servings pepper black freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon paprika smoked
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for sauteing

Equipment

• bowl
• frying pan
• oven
• whisk
• casserole dish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Heat the oil in a saute pan over medium-high heat. Stir in the onions and garlic; saute until translucent and fragrant and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the asparagus and saute until just tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, dill and cheeses.
6. In a separate bowl, add panko, paprika and butter.
7. Mix well to combine.
8. Place asparagus in casserole dish.
9. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus and top with the panko, spreading evenly.
10. Place in the preheated oven and bake until casserole is set and the bread crumbs are golden brown, about 20 minutes.