Cheesy Baked Asparagus Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a game-changer for weeknight dinners! It transforms simple asparagus into a flavorful, cheesy delight in under 30 minutes. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, while the garlic-infused olive oil adds a savory depth. Topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is irresistibly delicious and easy enough for even the busiest cooks. Get ready to make this your new go-to side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes! Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a delicious meal without the fuss.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of roasted asparagus, garlic-infused olive oil, and melted mozzarella is a flavor explosion in every bite. You’ll be surprised how much flavor you can get from so few ingredients.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. No need for a complicated shopping trip!
• Versatile: This dish pairs well with almost anything – chicken, fish, steak, or even as a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Asparagus: The star of the show! Choose firm, bright green spears. Make sure to snap off the woody ends for the best texture.
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil, it really enhances the flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced is the way to go. Don’t skimp on it – it’s what gives the asparagus that amazing savory flavor.
• Salt: Kosher salt is preferred for its clean taste, but sea salt will work too.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked is always best for the most aromatic flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Finely shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that perfect cheesy pull.

Variations

Want to spice things up? Here are some fun twists you can try:

• Parmesan Power: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese along with the mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil for a touch of heat.
• Lemon Zest: Zest a lemon over the asparagus before roasting for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a sweet and tangy touch.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top of the cheese before broiling.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Asparagus

Step 1: Prep the Asparagus

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Step 2: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they roast evenly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Oil

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Drizzle and Roast

Drizzle the garlic oil mixture evenly over the asparagus spears, making sure each one is coated. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and vibrantly green. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Broil

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the roasted asparagus. Return it to the oven, switching to the broiler setting, and broil for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and melty.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Asparagus: The key to perfect roasted asparagus is to cook it until it’s tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Watch the Broiler: The broiler can go from melted perfection to burnt in seconds, so keep a close eye on it.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: The Asparagus need room to breath to become crispy, the more asparagus on the pan will only result in soggy asparagus

How to Serve

This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or pork chops.
• As a Vegetarian Main Course: Serve over rice or quinoa with a side salad for a complete vegetarian meal.
• In an Omelet: Chop up leftover asparagus and add it to an omelet for a cheesy, veggie-packed breakfast.
• As a Topping: Use it as a topping for pizza, pasta, or even baked potatoes.
• Serve with: A little squeeze of lemon juice, a dollop of pesto, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Baked Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the asparagus in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Keep in mind that the cheese may not be as melty as it was when freshly made.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, the asparagus texture will become very mushy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

While fresh asparagus is preferred for its superior texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before roasting to remove excess moisture. This will help it crisp up better in the oven.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well and complements the flavor of the asparagus.

3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Garlic can burn easily in the oven, so it’s important to keep a close eye on it. To prevent burning, make sure the asparagus is evenly coated with the garlic oil and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature or cover the baking sheet with foil.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to serve Cheesy Baked Asparagus immediately for the best flavor and texture, you can prep the asparagus ahead of time. Snap off the woody ends and arrange the spears on the baking sheet, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast. You can also make the garlic oil mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Seriously, you HAVE to try this Cheesy Baked Asparagus! It’s the perfect way to get your veggies in and satisfy your cheese cravings at the same time. It’s so easy and so delicious, you’ll be making it again and again. Get creative with the variations, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy!

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