Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe

Looking for a delicious way to elevate your asparagus game? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic. The combination of tender asparagus, aromatic garlic, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese is a winning trio that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Cheesy baked asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course, whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner. The golden, bubbly cheese topping adds a touch of indulgence to this otherwise humble vegetable, making it a guaranteed hit with even the pickiest of eaters.

This recipe is not just about creating a delicious dish; it’s about creating cherished memories with your loved ones. From the first bite of crispy, cheesy goodness to the last, cheesy baked asparagus is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and creamy texture from melted mozzarella cheese
• Versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses
• Easy to prepare with minimal effort for a quick and impressive dish
• Can be customized with different cheese options for varied flavors

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe Recipe

• Impressively simple: A showstopper side dish that is effortless to make, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
• Family favorite: Loved by picky eaters and perfect for holidays or casual dinners, creating cherished memories around the dinner table.
• Versatile pairing: Complements a wide range of main dishes from roasted chicken to grilled steak, making it a go-to side for any meal.
• Nostalgic comfort: A traditional comfort food that brings back memories with each cheesy bite, making veggies exciting and enjoyable.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère, or a non-dairy option with nutritional yeast for varied flavors.
• Quick and fresh: Best served hot and fresh, but can be stored for up to two days, making it a convenient leftover option.
• Crispy and cheesy: Melty mozzarella cheese forms a golden, crispy topping that adds a rich, creamy texture to the roasted asparagus.
• Flavorful variations: Enhance the dish with crushed red pepper, lemon zest, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added depth of flavor.
• Quick finish: Roast the asparagus until tender, then broil briefly to brown the cheese, creating a visually appealing and delicious dish.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe

• 500 g asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (approximately 4 cloves)
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cups (about 125 g) finely shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Pro Tips for Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe

To elevate your cheesy baked asparagus, choose mozzarella for its creamy melting properties, but don’t hesitate to experiment with Parmesan or Gruyère for different flavor profiles. When roasting the asparagus, aim for a tender yet vibrant texture before briefly broiling to achieve that perfect golden-brown cheesy topping. Watch closely under the broiler to prevent burning and ensure a delicious finish. For optimal texture and flavor, assemble and bake the dish just before serving, adding the cheese and broiling at the last moment.

If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. When reheating, avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess; instead, place the asparagus on a tray in a hot oven until warmed through. To add extra flavor, consider sprinkling crushed red pepper, lemon zest, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the asparagus before serving. Whether enjoyed alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as part of a brunch spread, cheesy baked asparagus is sure to impress and disappear quickly, so get ready for it to be a crowd favorite!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 220°C and lightly grease a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Arrange Asparagus

Arrange asparagus spears in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Mix Seasoning

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir well to mix.

Step 4: Season Asparagus

Evenly coat the asparagus spears with the garlic and olive oil mixture.

Step 5: Roast Asparagus

Bake asparagus in the oven for 10-15 minutes until tender and vibrant.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

Take out the tray from the oven. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the asparagus. Place back in the oven on broil or grill setting and cook for 4–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture.

Storage Tips

To store the cheesy baked asparagus, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to two days. When reheating, spread the asparagus on a tray in a hot oven just until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave to prevent the dish from getting soggy.

While mozzarella cheese is the recommended choice for this dish due to its velvety melt, you can also experiment with substitutes like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles. For a dairy-free version, consider sprinkling nutritional yeast and a drizzle of olive oil over the asparagus before broiling.

Cheesy baked asparagus is a versatile dish that pairs well with various main courses or can be incorporated into salads, frittatas, or brunch spreads. Whether served on a casual weeknight or at a special gathering, this dish has a way of making vegetables exciting and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the cheese in this Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic recipe, consider using Parmesan or Gruyère as tasty alternatives to mozzarella. These cheeses offer their unique flavors and melt nicely to create a delicious topping for the asparagus.

To ensure the asparagus is cooked to perfection, roast it until it’s tender and vibrant before broiling with the cheese. Keep a close eye on the dish under the broiler to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden-brown cheesy topping.

For the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to assemble and roast the asparagus just before serving. Add the cheese and broil the dish at the last moment to preserve the crispness of the asparagus while allowing the cheese to melt and brown beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this cheesy baked asparagus dish, try layering it on top of a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of the tender asparagus with the cheesy topping over velvety potatoes creates a delicious and comforting side dish that will impress your guests.

Another fun serving suggestion is to incorporate the cheesy baked asparagus into a savory breakfast toast. Toast a thick slice of sourdough bread, spread a layer of mashed avocado or herbed cream cheese, and top it off with a generous serving of the cheesy asparagus. Sprinkle with some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet breakfast experience that will start your day off on a delicious note.

FAQs for Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is the preferred cheese for this dish due to its melting properties and creamy texture, you can also try Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Cheesy baked asparagus is best served fresh to retain its crispy texture. However, you can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, spread the asparagus on a tray in a hot oven until warmed through to avoid sogginess that can occur in the microwave.

How can I prevent the cheese from burning when broiling?

To avoid burning the cheese when broiling, make sure to watch it closely under the broiler. Roast the asparagus just until tender before adding the cheese, then broil briefly to brown the cheese. This step should be done quickly at the last moment before serving.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the spears before baking and broiling. This helps to remove excess moisture and ensures that the dish turns out well.

Conclusion

Once you try this delectable Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic recipe, it’s sure to become a staple on your dinner table. The combination of tender asparagus, flavorful garlic, and gooey melted cheese creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Whether you serve it alongside a hearty main course or enjoy it as a standalone treat, this dish is bound to impress even the most discerning palates.

So, gather your loved ones around the table, savor each cheesy bite, and create new memories over a dish that celebrates the simplicity and beauty of fresh, seasonal produce. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, Cheesy Baked Asparagus Garlic is a recipe that embodies the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones you hold dear. Cheers to good food, good company, and the simple pleasures that make every meal a special occasion.