Easy Asparagus Casserole - Serving Dumplings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds asparagus (2 bunches)
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper (more for serving)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried onion
• 1 garlic clove (pressed or grated)
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¾ cup grated Gruyère cheese
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (for serving, optional)
• ⅓ cup crumbled cooked bacon (for serving, optional)