Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a simple and tasty side dish! Fresh asparagus spears are drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with cheese, and baked until golden and bubbly.
This dish is a great way to add veggies to your meal while making them super cheesy and delicious! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken for a perfect dinner combo.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here! Look for vibrant green stalks that are firm and straight. If asparagus is out of season, you can use broccoli or green beans instead for a similar crunch.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings that gooey texture, but feel free to mix it up! A blend of mozzarella and cheddar adds a nice flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty kick. If you’re looking for a substitute, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can work just as well. Nutritional yeast is a great option too for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Nuts: Almonds or cashews add a lovely crunch. If you have nut allergies, pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds can be a fantastic replacement, giving that necessary texture boost.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best here, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch. Aim for about a teaspoon of powder if needed.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Baked Asparagus?
Getting the asparagus just right can be tricky, but if you follow these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly tender and cheesy stalks!
- Start by washing the asparagus well and trimming about an inch from the bottom to remove the tough ends.
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on your baking sheet. This ensures even cooking.
- After tossing with olive oil and garlic, be sure to season well with salt and pepper. Don’t skip this; it makes a big difference.
- When you top with cheese and nuts, you want an even layer for the best melting and crunch.
- Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want tender asparagus with melted, golden cheese.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a cheese blend like mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or cashews) for topping
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a mild kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for baking. So, you can have cheesy baked asparagus ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gets it nice and hot for crispy, cheesy goodness!
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Wash the asparagus thoroughly and then trim the tough ends off the stalks. You want them tender and tasty, so just cut off about an inch from the bottom.
3. Arrange the Asparagus:
Place the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet. This helps them cook evenly, so don’t try to crowd them!
4. Add Olive Oil and Garlic:
Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly on top. Gently toss the asparagus to ensure each stalk is well-coated in that lovely olive oil and garlic mix.
5. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the asparagus to your liking. Remember, you can always add more later, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the asparagus first, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t be stingy—this is where the deliciousness happens!
7. Top with Nuts:
Finally, add a layer of chopped nuts on top for a delightful crunch. This step is optional, but it adds great texture!
8. Bake It Up:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye out! You’re looking for tender asparagus and beautifully melted, golden cheese.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to eat and help all those yummy flavors settle.
10. Optional Spice It Up:
If you like a little kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before serving. This final touch can really elevate your dish!
Enjoy your cheesy baked asparagus as a delightful side with grilled meats, fish, or as a satisfying vegetarian option!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but it’s best to thaw it first! To thaw, place the frozen asparagus in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water. Drain thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe to avoid too much moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to retain the crispiness of the cheese and nuts.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some vegetables may need more or less time to cook through.
