Baked Asparagus with Cheesy Almond Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. asparagus, trimmed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup soft bread cubes
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF
2. Cook asparagus in boiling salted water until tender. Drain.
3. Arrange asparagus in a greased 9'' pie plate.
4. Melt butter in a saucepan and add 2 tablespoons of the bread cubes, mixing well to coat.
5. Blend flour into the remaining butter.
6. Add milk and cook, stirring until smooth and thick. Stir in cheese and almonds. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour cheese mixture over asparagus and top with remaining bread cubes.
8. Bake for approximately 20 minutes.