Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Asparagus
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and trim the asparagus. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the asparagus evenly inside.
Step 2: Start the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until everything is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and allow the sauce to gently simmer, stirring often, until it thickens and no longer sticks to the pan. This should take just a few minutes.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan and Pepper Jack cheeses. Continue mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the cheese sauce over the center of the asparagus, keeping the tips uncovered. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and additional shredded cheese if desired.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Bake for 15 minutes, adjusting the time slightly if you prefer firmer asparagus. Remove from the oven, scatter the bacon crumbles on top, and return to the oven for 3 more minutes. Serve warm and enjoy! 
