Savory Roasted Asparagus with a Fiery Gouda Drizzle

Ingredients

• Fresh asparagus, tenderly trimmed, in a quantity of 8 ounces
• A pinch of salt, just half a teaspoon
• A drizzle of olive oil, half a teaspoon to be precise
• Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons ready
• All-purpose flour, in an amount of 2 tablespoons
• Creamy half-and-half, a cupful to enrich the dish
• Delicate notes of dry mustard, half a teaspoon for a hint of flavor
• Paprika, half a teaspoon to add a touch of warmth
• Gouda cheese, shredded and weighing 8 ounces

Step 1

Begin by preheating your oven to a toasty 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for that perfect cooking temperature.

Step 2

Next, lay out your fresh asparagus on a generously sized baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer for even cooking. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the asparagus, then drizzle some flavorful olive oil on top. Gently toss the asparagus to ensure they are all evenly coated with the oil.

Step 3

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the asparagus bake until they are tender and delicious, which should take around 10 minutes.

Step 4

While the asparagus is roasting away, let's whip up a creamy and decadent cheese sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt some butter until it's nice and bubbly. Add a bit of flour and whisk it until it turns a beautiful golden hue, which should take about 2 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in some half and half, along with a dash of mustard powder and paprika. Keep whisking for an additional 2 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Next, add in the rich smoked Gouda cheese and continue whisking until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce has thickened, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Once the asparagus is done roasting, carefully transfer them to a lovely serving tray. Then, generously spoon the luscious cheese sauce over the top of the asparagus, ensuring each spear is coated in this flavorful delight.

Step 7

Enjoy your beautifully crafted dish of roasted asparagus with a creamy and indulgent cheese sauce - a perfect blend of flavors that will surely impress your guests!