Description
This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a simple yet indulgent side dish that brings out the best in fresh asparagus. Roasted until tender and golden, then topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, it’s the perfect way to elevate your veggie game. With garlicky olive oil and a crispy-cheesy finish, this quick oven-baked recipe is ready in just 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with any main course.
Ingredients
Vegetables
1 pound (500g) asparagus, woody ends trimmed
Seasoning & Oil
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Cheese
1 1/4 cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with nonstick spray or oil to keep the asparagus from sticking. -
Arrange the Asparagus
Lay the trimmed asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet for even roasting. -
Season the Asparagus
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the asparagus, using your hands or tongs to evenly coat each spear. -
Roast the Asparagus
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and vibrant green with slightly crisped tips. -
Add the Cheese
Remove the asparagus from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven and switch to the broil setting. -
Broil Until Golden
Broil for 4–5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and beginning to brown. -
Serve Hot
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan along with the mozzarella.
- If your asparagus spears are very thick, you may want to increase the roasting time by 2–3 minutes.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the garlic mixture.
- This recipe works great as a low-carb side dish or even a cheesy veggie appetizer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 150kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg