Cheesy Baked Asparagus is a simple and tasty side dish that brings a crispy cheese topping to fresh asparagus. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that even picky eaters can enjoy!
Honestly, who can resist cheese? This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or a fancy gathering. Just pop it in the oven and watch it turn golden—easy peasy and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for this dish. Look for firm, bright green stalks. If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or broccoli can be good substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time for different veggies.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. However, if you prefer, you can use melted butter or avocado oil, which will also work well.
Cheese Blend: The mix of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a gooey, tasty top. If you want to switch it up, try cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheese flavor. For a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese can be used instead.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add a great depth of flavor. If fresh garlic or onion is on hand, feel free to use those. About 1 clove of minced garlic or 1/4 of onion, sautéed before mixing, will do the trick!
Red Pepper Flakes: I add these for a bit of heat. Adjust to your taste, or leave them out if you prefer a milder dish. A sprinkle of paprika could also add nice color and flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Gets Perfectly Golden Brown?
Getting that golden, bubbly cheese on top is what makes this dish pop. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the asparagus to ensure every bite gets cheesy goodness.
- Use a combination of cheese types to enhance flavor and texture—mozzarella for gooeyness and Parmesan for that sharp bite.
- For the last few minutes of baking, consider turning the broiler on to help achieve a crispy top. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking. This will help the cheese set a little, making it easier to serve.
Cheesy Baked Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus:
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your cheesy asparagus.
2. Prepare the Asparagus:
Wash and trim the asparagus to remove the tough ends. Place the trimmed asparagus in a baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the asparagus is well coated with the oil and seasoning.
3. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully mixed together into a creamy, cheesy mixture.
4. Add the Cheese Mixture:
Spread the cheesy mixture evenly over the asparagus in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the asparagus so every bite is cheesy!
5. Add Some Heat (Optional):
If you like a little kick, sprinkle the red pepper flakes on top of the cheese mixture. This step is optional, but it adds a nice spicy flavor!
6. Bake the Dish:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious and cheesy baked asparagus! It’s a great side dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but it’s best to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in your dish. Simply place the frozen asparagus in the fridge overnight, or run it under cold water for a few minutes, then pat it dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe.
What Cheese Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, feel free to use other cheeses! Cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses works great for a different flavor profile. Just keep the proportions similar to ensure the mixture remains creamy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it, covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since the asparagus will be cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, as this helps retain the cheese’s texture rather than using the microwave, which can make it rubbery.
