Spring is finally here. The garden is waking up. Fresh green spears brighten your plate. This Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a total treat. It turns a simple vegetable into a family favorite.
You will love how fast this comes together. It is perfect for those busy nights. Dinner can be fresh and fun again.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it feels fancy. It takes only 25 minutes to make. Your family will love the gooey cheese. It is a great way to feed kids veggies.
The dish is naturally low carb and keto-friendly. It fits into almost any meal plan. You get fresh flavor with very little effort.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this dish is incredibly simple. You just toss the spears with oil. Roast them until they are tender. Add a blanket of cheese at the end. It is nearly impossible to mess up this side.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are mostly pantry staples and fresh produce.
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the asparagus to coat evenly and spread back into a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the center of the spears.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these spears while the cheese is warm. They pair well with grilled chicken. Try them with a juicy steak too. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This is a perfect spring side dish for any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer. This keeps the cheese crispy and delicious. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess. It is best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Recipe Tips
- Snap the woody ends off the spears first.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Do not crowd the baking sheet.
- Watch the cheese so it does not burn.
- For spring, use thin, tender spears.
- Add red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Use a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Add cooked bacon for a smoky taste.
- Use cheddar instead of mozzarella for tang.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
- Add lemon zest for a fresh scent.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is best for the right texture. Frozen can get a bit mushy. If you use frozen, do not thaw first.
How do I know it is done?
The spears should be tender-crisp. They should still have a little bite. The cheese should be golden and bubbly.
Is this recipe keto?
Yes, it is very low in carbs. It fits a healthy keto lifestyle perfectly. It is a great high-fat side dish.
I hope this cheesy side dish delights you. It makes eating greens feel like a treat. Enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!
— Lidia
Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 2 tablespoons extra -virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the trimmed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the asparagus to coat evenly and spread back into a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the center of the spears.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.
