Ah, cheesy baked asparagus—this dish holds a special place in my heart (and my belly!). I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering, where my aunt whipped it up as a side dish, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of tender asparagus spears with a gooey, melted cheese topping is nothing short of a match made in flavor heaven. It’s the perfect side for any meal, and trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
What I love most about this recipe is how simple and quick it is, yet it feels so fancy! You can easily impress guests or make it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner. Plus, whenever I bake this dish, it fills my kitchen with the most inviting aroma. So, let’s get started on this cheesy adventure!
What’s in Delicious Cheesy Baked Asparagus?
Asparagus: The star of the show! Fresh asparagus adds a tender crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cheese. Look for firm, bright green stalks when shopping.
Cheese: A melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan takes this dish to the next level. Mozzarella adds that gooey stretch, while Parmesan brings a lovely nutty flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps to perfectly roast the asparagus and keeps it from drying out. I always reach for extra virgin olive oil because it has a rich flavor.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of this savory delight adds depth and makes everything taste even more amazing.
Salt and Pepper: Simple, but essential! These seasonings enhance the flavors of the veggies and cheese.
Is Delicious Cheesy Baked Asparagus Good for You?
This dish offers a lovely mix of health benefits!
Asparagus: These green spears are low in calories yet high in vitamins A, C, E, and K, plus fiber. They make a great addition to any healthy diet.
Olive Oil: It’s known for its heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a much better choice than butter for roasting.
However, we do have some cheese here, so while it’s a delicious and comforting addition, if you’re watching your fat intake, you might want to enjoy this as an occasional treat rather than a staple.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh asparagus (serves 4)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Delicious Cheesy Baked Asparagus?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s always great to start with a warm oven!
2. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat them dry with a towel. Trim off the tough ends, about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
3. In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You want to give them a bit of space to roast nicely!
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the asparagus.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from the oven and enjoy your cheesy creation while it’s hot!
Cheesy Tips and Serving Suggestions
If you want to take this dish to another level, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of spice! I also love garnishing it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish.
This cheesy baked asparagus is perfect as a side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or even tossed into a salad for a hearty lunch. The possibilities are endless!
I must say, I hope you give this recipe a shot soon—it’s an easy way to elevate your vegetable game. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Share your cheesy asparagus moments with me! Happy cooking!
